Cancer Information for Teens, 5th Ed.

Although cancer in children is rare, it is the leading cause of death by disease past infancy among children in the United States. In 2021, it is estimated that 15,590 children and adolescents ages 0 to 19 will be diagnosed with cancer. An estimated 10,500 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed among children from birth to 14 years, and about 1,190 children are expected to die from the disease. The most common types of cancer diagnosed in children ages 0 to 14 years are leukemias, brain and other central nervous systems (CNSs) tumors, and lymphomas. Cancer affects teens differently than older adults or young children. Additionally, teens face environmental factors and make lifestyle choices that may influence their disease risk.

Cancer Information For Teens, Fifth Edition presents updated facts about cancer causes, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. It explains how cancer occurs in the body and describes some warning signs. A chapter focused on cancer myths helps teens sort facts from fiction. For teens who do have cancer, the book gives practical advice about important topics, such as which questions to ask healthcare providers and how to cope with treatment side effects and changes in body image. Social worries at school and among friends are addressed, and cancer survivorship issues, including fertility concerns, are discussed frankly. A separate section focuses on teens with friends or family members who have cancer. Finally, a resource section provides suggestions for additional reading, a directory of web-based support sources and mobile apps, and a list of websites for finding cancer trials.