Childhood leukemia

What is childhood leukemia?

Leukemia is a cancer that starts in blood stem cells in the bone marrow. Learn about childhood leukemia in our guide.

Risks for childhood leukemia

Risks for childhood leukemia include genetic syndromes, having a sibling with leukemia and radiation.

Symptoms of childhood leukemia

Symptoms of childhood leukemia include easy bruising or bleeding, bone or joint pain and a swollen abdomen. Learn about the symptoms of childhood leukemia.

Diagnosis of childhood leukemia

Tests to diagnose childhood leukemia, such as bone marrow aspiration, are done when symptoms are present. Learn about diagnosing childhood leukemia.

Phases of childhood leukemia

There is no standard staging system for childhood leukemia as leukemia does not form solid tumours.

If childhood leukemia spreads

Leukemia can spread wherever the blood travels, including to the lymph nodes, liver and spleen. Learn about how childhood leukemia spreads.

Prognosis and survival for childhood leukemia

Prognosis and survival of childhood leukemia depends on many factors, including type of leukemia. Learn about prognosis and survival of childhood leukemia.

Treatments for childhood leukemia

Treatments for childhood leukemia include chemotherapy, radiation and stem cell transplant. Learn about treatment plans and options for childhood leukemia.

Supportive care

Supportive care is an important part of cancer care. It helps children and their families meet the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges of cancer. It helps improve the quality of life of children living with cancer. It can help children to cope with cancer, its treatment and possible side effects.

Childhood leukemia statistics

Childhood leukemia is the most common cancer diagnosed in Canadian children. Learn about childhood leukemia incidence and mortality statistics.

Medical disclaimer

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