September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The annual observance brings attention to children and families affected by cancer and the need for continued research. The American Association for Cancer Research recognizes the observance each September.
Understanding childhood cancer
Childhood cancer includes several different diseases. According to the National Cancer Institute’s childhood cancer overview, leukemias, brain and other central nervous system tumors, and lymphomas are among the most common cancers in children ages 0–14.
Children’s cancers can differ from adult cancers, and care is provided by specialists in pediatric oncology. Treatment depends on the type of cancer and the child’s circumstances. Research also follows survivors to understand the long-term effects of cancer and its treatment.
Why childhood cancer research matters
National Cancer Center supports research through the Children’s Cancer Project and Fighting Childhood Leukemia program. These programs help fund scientists investigating childhood cancers.
Explore our research grants and fellows to learn more about the work supported by NCC. Researchers can review our fellowship application guidelines.
Ways to take part in September
- Share reliable information about childhood cancer and the importance of research.
- Learn about NCC’s childhood cancer research programs and the scientists we support.
- Donate to National Cancer Center to help fund cancer research fellowships.
Families looking for information can visit the National Cancer Institute’s Support for Families: Childhood Cancer resource.
Updated September 6, 2026. The title and text have been corrected to identify September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
