World Leukaemia Day

World Leukaemia Day raises awareness of leukaemia, the most common cancer in children and young people, and helps people recognise signs of leukaemia. 
 

What is World Leukaemia Day?

World Leukaemia Day is celebrated every year to raise awareness and encourage the public to recognise leukaemia symptoms. 

When is World Leukaemia Day?

This year, World Leukaemia Day is on 4 September.

What is leukaemia?

Leukaemia is a type of cancer that forms in white blood cells in the bone marrow. Normally, white blood cells develop, repair and reproduce themselves. In leukaemia, these cells are out of control; they divide but don't mature. The immature cells fill up the bone marrow and stop it from making healthy blood cells. This increases the risk of infection and causes tiredness, bruising or bleeding. The most common types of leukaemia in children and young people are acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). 

Read more about leukaemia in children.

Read more about childhood leukaemia

Leukaemia in children

Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer. Leukaemias are the most common group of childhood cancers, accounting for approximately 1 in 3 cases every year.

Child Cancer Smart resources for families

Most childhood illnesses improve within a couple of weeks. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, or you’re concerned something isn’t right, trust your instincts and speak to a doctor.

The face of a young woman looking thoughtful

Leukaemia in teenagers and young adults

Leukaemia is a cancer of the white blood cells. Usually, white blood cells divide and grow in a controlled way. In leukaemia, this process gets out of control.

How CCLG supports children with 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.

Create brighter tomorrows for children with cancer

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

A mother and daughter stand close together, wearing matching navy blue t-shirts with a Childhood Cancer Awareness Month logo on.

Charlie's story

Sarah Jackson’s daughter Charlie was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2011 when aged three. Here, Sarah tells us about the long-term effects of Charlie’s cancer and her treatment.

A young girl with a bald head sits in a hospital bed, smiling. She wears a colourful rainbow-patterned dressing gown, with a bright colouring book open in front of her.

Matilda's story

Matilda was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at just three years and four months old. Her mum, Hannah, shares her story.

A young girl with brown hair styled in a braid lies in a hospital bed, smiling.

Sophie's story

Sophie was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in April 2021 at the age of seven. Her mother, Tanya, shares her story.