Child Cancer Smart

An evidence-based public and professional awareness campaign to improve early diagnosis of cancer in children and teenagers.

 

It can be really hard to spot cancer in children. Many of the most common cancer symptoms are the same as symptoms of everyday illnesses.

 

Early diagnosis can save lives - learn to spot the signs.

Information for families

Information for parents, children and teenagers to help recognise the signs and symptoms of cancer

Resources for professionals

Guidance for professionals on when and how to refer children and teenagers with suspected cancer, based on current evidence

What is Child Cancer Smart?

Learn more about why Child Cancer Smart exists and how it will help to improve outcomes for children and teenagers with cancer

Do you know the signs and symptoms?

Understanding some of the most common signs and symptoms of childhood cancer could lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

About cancer diagnosis in children

Some key facts from the landmark NIHR-funded national Childhood Cancer diagnosis study:
  • 50 %

    of children and teenagers with solid tumours are diagnosed within 3 weeks of first consultation

  • 2 in 3

    children and young people were diagnosed after emergency presentation

  • 14

    different healthcare professionals, on average, were consulted with initial symptoms

  • 3

    symptoms were noted in children and young people, most frequently, at the point of diagnosis

Childhood Cancer Diagnosis study

This campaign has been driven by the results of the landmark Childhood Cancer Diagnosis study, published in The Lancet Regional Health Europe in July 2025. Find out more about the study.
Find out more