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- AwarenessChildrenDiseases
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- International
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- Every September
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- 🎗️
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month unites communities throughout September to shine a light on pediatric cancer. This vital observance aims to educate the public about the disease, support affected families, and fund critical research. Join the movement by wearing gold, donating, and spreading awareness to help save young lives.
Want to sponsor Childhood Cancer Awareness Month? Learn how
History of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
The month is recognized as the time to host the annual national health campaign regarding cancer in children. During these months, many organizations collect funds, host events, and create awareness regarding cancers that have taken the lives of thousands of children. The American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO) in particular, encourages everyone to wear gold for the kids – all the survivors, the victims, as well as those who are still fighting the disease. The organization was founded in 1970 by parents of children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, and it stands tall as the oldest and largest organization dedicated to the cause. ACCO also places great importance on forming policies that support cancer research, awareness, and education. The organization is also a member of Childhood Cancer International and has helped support more than half a million families over the past 50 years.
To further assist such firms in fighting cancer, President Obama declared September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2012. This is because pediatric cancer is the leading cause of death for children under 14. However, before this, the “National Childhood Cancer Awareness Day” Resolution was also passed on May 23, 2008. The resolution that was pushed forward by Senators Wayne Allard and Hillary Clinton recognized September 13 as the special day. Furthermore, in September 2019, Senator Joe Manchin passed a resolution to designate September as “National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month”. A proclamation was also signed in 1990 by President George Bush to term October as the National Awareness Month for Children with Cancer.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month timeline
The Acute Leukemia Chemotherapy Cooperative Study Group A (ALCCSGA) is formed.
Combinations of multiple chemotherapy drugs emerge.
Bone marrow transplantation outcomes are improved for kids and a few new chemotherapy agents are introduced.
The Children's Oncology Group (COG) has over 70,000 children with cancer.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month FAQs
When is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2026 runs throughout September, from Tuesday, September 1, to Wednesday, September 30. It’s a crucial time to unite in the fight against pediatric cancer.
How many children are diagnosed with cancer each year?
Globally, over 400,000 children and adolescents (0-19 years old) are diagnosed with cancer each year. In the U.S., approximately 15,780 children are diagnosed annually, making it the leading cause of death by disease among children.
What is the survival rate for childhood cancer?
Thanks to significant advancements in research and treatment, the overall five-year survival rate for childhood cancers in the U.S. has risen dramatically to over 85%. However, survival rates vary widely depending on the type of cancer and stage at diagnosis.
What does the gold ribbon symbolize for childhood cancer?
The gold ribbon is the universal symbol for childhood cancer awareness, much like the pink ribbon for breast cancer. It represents the preciousness of children and is worn to show solidarity with young patients and their families, and to advocate for increased funding.
How to Observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Host a charity event
Do you want to do something great this month? Host a charity event and donate all the funds to the nearest childhood cancer organization.
Donate
If you can’t organize an event, do your part by donating an amount that you are easily able to afford. You can also convince your friends and family to pitch in.
Spread the message
Post on social media, have a webinar, share articles, or simply talk about it! The idea is to spread awareness regarding childhood cancer.
5 Facts You Need To Know About Childhood Cancer
Children diagnosed with cancer
43 children are diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. every day.
Worldwide cancer rate
About 400,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed each year
Genetic diseases
Almost 10% of children with cancer inherited a genetic mutation.
Cancer survivors in the U.S
There are 483,000 childhood cancer survivors.
A rare cancer
It is known as neuroblastoma and almost always affects children.
Why Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is Important
It raises awareness
The month is essential since many parents do not even know the types of cancers that can be found in children until it’s too late.
It helps raise funds
The month is crucial to collect funds for children who cannot afford treatment. These funds are also utilized for research.
It gives hope
The month also highlights the number of children who managed to survive after treatment. Hence, it provides hope to many.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | September 1 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 1 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 1 | Friday |
| 2029 | September 1 | Saturday |
| 2030 | September 1 | Sunday |
