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Cancer in children is rare, but cancer remains a leading cause of death for children and adolescents. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) estimates that in 2020 almost 280 000 children and adolescents (aged 0–19 years) were diagnosed with cancer worldwide. However, the actual number may be much higher, because in many countries childhood cancer is difficult to diagnose.
Cancer types that develop in children are very different from those in adults. There is an urgent need for targeted research to better understand, prevent, and cure paediatric cancers. IARC scientists are conducting a wide range of research initiatives related to childhood cancer, with a focus on several important research areas.
