A black nurse in a blue uniform touching the shoulder of a patient with a green top and brown hair

World Cancer Day

As a leading national charity and expert voice for all childhood cancers, we're raising awareness and sharing ways you can support those affected by cancer this World Cancer Day.

What is World Cancer Day?

World Cancer Day is an internationally recognised day that runs every year. We celebrate it to raise awareness of the disease and encourage its prevention. The theme this year places people at the centre of care. Every cancer and every experience is unique, and only by coming together and being united, can we hope to put people and communities at the centre of health systems.

When is World Cancer Day 2027?

World Cancer Day is held every year on February 4.

What is cancer?

Cancer is a disease that makes some cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably. Normally, healthy cells grow, divide and, in time, get worn out and die. If something goes wrong, this process gets out of control, so the cells keep dividing and don’t die. Often, these cells form a lump called a tumour. Each week in the UK and Ireland, more than 30 children are diagnosed with cancer. See more about cancer types in children and cancer in young adults.

Our award-winning information resources help ease anxiety, stress and loneliness often felt by families. Each one has been created alongside professionals and experts to offer support throughout the cancer journey.

Children and young people's cancer

I am worried my child has cancer

When your child becomes unwell, it is understandable to worry that it could be cancer. Around 1,900 children (0-14 years old) in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every year.

Darcey's story

Darcey was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in November 2022 when she was just 17 months old. Her mum, Sophie, shares her story.

Types of cancer in children and young people

Although there are over 200 different types of cancer, certain cancers are more likely to affect children and young people. Understanding more about the type of cancer and the treatments that may be used can often help you to cope.

How is childhood cancer different to adult cancer?

Childhood cancer is different from adult cancer in many ways. It is much less common, and the types of cancer children develop often affect the blood, brain, spinal cord, or lymphatic system.

Treatment options need to consider a child’s growth, development, and long-term health. Childhood cancer symptoms can often look like common childhood illnesses; it’s important to speak to a doctor if symptoms are persistent, progressive, or occur in clusters. Thanks to advances in treatment, more and more children are surviving, so care also focuses on their well-being and managing any long-term effects.

A mother sits on the sofa, with her sick child's head on a cushion in her lap.

Create brighter tomorrows for children and young people with cancer

By supporting us, you’re driving life-changing progress and making a real difference to young lives.

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How CCLG supports those affected by cancer

At CCLG, we bring together the children and young people’s cancer community. Our network of dedicated professional members work together in treatment, care and research to help shape a future where all children with cancer survive and live happy, healthy and independent lives. We also fund research, support initiatives, and collaborate nationally and internationally to drive improvements in childhood cancer care.