To understand childhood cancer
A diagnosis of cancer in a child can bring about many changes. There is much to cope with, and decisions to be made. It is common for parents as well as the child to feel that their life has spun out of control, often because they do not have knowledge about the disease that affects them.
Gathering information and talking about cancer helps many parents and children feel more in control and more involved.Knowing what to expect can help put things in perspective and help the child and family to make decisions.
Cancer in children is rare, and most Canadian children who develop cancer will survive their disease. The most common cancers diagnosed in children (aged 0–19 years) are:
* leukemia
* brain and spinal tumours
* lymphomas (Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma)

Trained information specialists at Cancer Information Service can take the time to answer your questions about childhood cancer and search for the information you need on :

* diagnosis and treatment options
* managing side effects during treatment
* nutrition
* emotional support for parents and siblings
* long-term effects after treatment
* respite and palliative care