Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan for Michigan, 2009-2015 Goals (2009 - 2015): Childhood Cancers
Goal: Improve the quality of life for childhood cancer survivors in Michigan.
Data Cancer is a leading cause of death among U.S. children age one to 14, though it is still relatively rare in this age group.1 Among the 12 major types of childhood cancers, leukemia and cancers of the brain and central nervous system account for more than half of the new cases. About one-third of all childhood cancers are leukemia.2
In Michigan, 331 children (ages 1-14 years) were diagnosed with cancer in 2007, 53 children died of the disease in 2008.3 Childhood cancer is the third leading cause of death in Michigan children ages one to four years and the second leading cause of death in children ages five to 14 years.4 In 2007, there were approximately 5,600 childhood cancer survivors in Michigan.3
Over the past 20 years, there has been an overall increase in the incidence of all forms of invasive cancer diagnosed in children, while death rates have declined and five-year survival rates increased during this time period. Increased risk for some childhood cancers has been linked to high levels of ionizing radiation through accidental exposure or radiotherapy, children with cancer treated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Children with AIDS, children with certain genetic syndromes, and children with Down syndrome are also at higher risk for cancer.2
Seventy-seven percent of children treated for cancer survive five years or more, an increase of almost 45 percent since the early 1960s.1 The effects of childhood cancer treatment that may affect the child’s health later in life are called late effects. Close, long-term follow-up from health care providers who understand what complications to look for is needed.2
Only a small percentage of childhood cancer survivors are affected by any single, specific chronic health condition. Twenty-six percent of childhood cancer survivors reported no adverse health conditions at all.2
4 Leading Causes of Death and Cause-Specific Rates by Age, Michigan Residents 2006. 2006 Michigan Resident Death File, Vital Records & Health Data Development Section, Michigan Department of Community Health. Available online at www.mdch.state.mi.us/pha/osr/ deaths/causageall.asp.
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