What are the Differences Between Cancers in Adults and Children?

The types of cancers that develop in children are different from the types that develop in adults. Although there are exceptions, childhood cancers tend to respond better to chemotherapy. Children also tolerate chemotherapy better than adults, but, because chemotherapy can have some long-term side effects, children who survive the caner need careful attention for the rest of their lives.

Childhood cancer patients and their families have special needs that can best be met by specialized cancer centers for children and adolescents, being treated in specialized centers offers them the advantage of a team of specialists who know the differences between adults and childhood cancers, as well as the unique needs of children with cancers. This team usual includes pediatric oncologists, pathologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pediatric oncology nurses, and nurse practitioners.

Since the 1960’s, most children with cancer have been treated at specialized centers designed for them. These centers have psychologists, social workers, child life specialists, nutritionists, rehabilitation and physical therapists, and educators who can support and educate the entire family.

Nearly 90% of children with cancer in the United States are treated at a center that is a member of the Children’s Oncology Group (COG). Right now, about 40,000 children are being treated according to research protocols (clinical trials) all of these centers are associated with a university or children’s hospital.