Pediatric oncology

Abstract

There are unique challenges to overcome for children and families facing a pediatric cancer diagnosis. This chapter covers cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and recovery in the context of treating the child with cancer as part of a whole family. It explores the issues and challenges that are specific to children and families. The types of cancer for which children are at highest risk vary by age. Childhood cancers are treated with varying combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, depending on the specific cancer type. The healthcare of survivors of childhood cancer is undertaken by physicians who are knowledgeable in the field of late effects and experienced in the care of survivors. A cancer diagnosis in childhood carries with it a myriad of effects, not only on the physical health of the child, but also on the psychological health, social well-being, and educational outcomes for that child.