Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is observed every September to raise awareness about cancers that affect children and adolescents. The month honors young patients, survivors, families, medical teams, and the children whose lives have been lost. It also supports research, better treatments, family support services, and education about symptoms that should never be ignored.

History of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month grew from the work of families, advocates, doctors, researchers, and nonprofit organizations that wanted pediatric cancer to receive more public attention. The American Childhood Cancer Organization, founded in 1970 by parents of children with cancer, has played an important role in raising awareness and supporting families affected by childhood cancer.

In 2012, President Barack Obama proclaimed September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in the United States. Since then, September has become a major time for hospitals, cancer centers, charities, schools, and communities to share information, support families, and raise funds for pediatric cancer research.

Childhood cancers are different from many adult cancers. They are often linked to DNA changes that happen early in life, and many cannot be prevented through lifestyle changes. Because there is no general screening test for most childhood cancers, timely medical attention for unusual or persistent symptoms is especially important.

Important Facts About Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

• According to the World Health Organization, about 400,000 children and adolescents ages 0-19 develop cancer each year worldwide.
• The American Cancer Society estimates that about 9,680 children in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in 2026.
• Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease after infancy among children in the United States.
• The most common cancers in children include leukemias, brain and spinal cord tumors, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, retinoblastoma, and bone cancers.
• Leukemia is the most common cancer in children.
• About 85% of children with cancer now survive five years or more, but survival depends on the cancer type, stage, treatment access, and other factors.

Ways to Observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month can be observed by learning about pediatric cancer, sharing reliable information, and supporting families facing a diagnosis. People can wear a gold ribbon, take part in awareness events, donate to childhood cancer research, or support organizations that provide practical help to children and families.

The month is also a reminder to take children’s health concerns seriously. Persistent symptoms such as unexplained pain, unusual lumps, repeated fevers, ongoing fatigue, easy bruising, vision changes, headaches with vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or symptoms that do not improve should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

When Is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in 2026?

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is observed annually throughout September, beginning on September 1.

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