Childhood Cancer Research

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Cancer Research

About 9,680 children in the United States under the age of 15, and 5,660 adolescents (age 15-19) will be diagnosed with cancer in 2026. An estimated 1,820 children and adolescents are expected to die from cancer in 2026.

Group of advocates in yellow for childhood cancer action day

In February, ACS CAN volunteers joined other cancer patients, survivors and family members from 40 states and the District of Columbia in the nation’s capital for the 15th Annual Alliance for Childhood Cancer Action Days, a two-day event organized by the Alliance for Childhood Cancer, of which ACS CAN is a member. 

 

Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death for children aged 1-19.

While cancer is much rarer in children compared to adults, the disease can take a tremendous toll because it strikes so early in life and survivors face high rates of late effects that can last a lifetime.

Childhood Cancer Landscape and Recommendations

 

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Two-time childhood cancer survivor brings message of hope, research through advocacy

September 3, 2026

At six years old, Kai was like any other child: vivacious, curious, and ready to take on the world. But when unexplained symptoms left him constantly ill, his family grew concerned. One morning, he woke up with a large lump on his abdomen, and his mother knew they needed to

ACS CAN Calls on Administration to Withdraw Rule that Jeopardizes Future of Cancer Research

July 13, 2026
National

Today, the American Cancer Society and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network submitted a comment letter to the Office of Management and Budget strongly opposing a proposed rule that would change the federal government’s grantmaking framework.

Congress Demonstrates Strong Commitment to Cancer Prevention and Cures in FY26 Appropriations Bill

January 20, 2026
National

Today, the Congressional Appropriations Committees released the FY2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies appropriations bill that reaffirms the bipartisan commitment to advancing cancer research and saving lives by continued and increased funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

High school advocate helps secure landmark childhood cancer funding

September 29, 2025

Through persistence and partnership, Sahil helped pass a bill that created California’s first dedicated state fund for pediatric cancer research. At only seventeen years old, Sahil Mehta, Legislative Ambassador with ACS CAN California, led the charge to champion childhood cancer research in his state and made an undeniable impact in

Childhood Cancer Research Resources

Childhood Cancer Landscape 2026

September 4, 2026

ACS CAN, in partnership with the Alliance for Childhood Cancer, has surveyed the current childhood cancer landscape, assessing the latest epidemiological data and statistics as well as updates on policies impacting progress for childhood cancer.

Community Support Letter for Give Kids A Chance

February 24, 2025

ACS CAN has endorsed the Give Kids A Chance bill and has joined the Alliance for Childhood Cancer in calling on Congress to pass this legislation.  The bill would restore import incentives to developing drugs for children with cancer. 

Community Support Letter for Accelerating Kids' Access to Care Act

February 22, 2025

ACS CAN has endorsed the Accelerating Kids' Access to Care Act, and through the Alliance for Childhood Cancer, has sent a support letter to Congress.