Children's cancer
Cancer symptoms can be very similar to those of other childhood illnesses. There are many different possible symptoms so we are unable to list them all on this page. You know your child best. Take them to the GP if you notice something that is not normal for them.
Remember the symptoms we list here are not usually cancer. See your child's doctor if they have any of the following symptoms:
they're unable to wee or have blood in their wee
an unexplained lump, firmness or swelling anywhere in the body
tummy (abdominal) pain or swelling that doesn't go away
back or bone pain that doesn't go away, or pain that wakes your child up in the night
unexplained seizures (fits) or changes in their behaviour and mood
headaches that don't go away
unusual paleness
feeling tired all the time
frequent infections or flu-like symptoms
unexplained vomiting (being sick)
unexplained high temperature (fever) or sweating
feeling short of breath
changes in the appearance of the eye or unusual eye reflections in photos
frequent or unexplained bruising or bleeding
unexplained weight loss
a rash of small red or purple spots that can't be explained and don't fade under pressure from the side of a glass. This may be harder to see on black or brown skin.
Print this page out and take it with you to the appointment. It might help you explain to the doctor why you are worried.
Make sure you know what happens next. This includes where to take your child for any tests. Or, when to expect an appointment with another healthcare professional.
Ask when to make another appointment if your child’s symptoms don’t get better. Or if the symptoms get worse.
It is normal to worry if your child has symptoms of any illness. Cancer is very rare in children. And because there are so many possible symptoms, sometimes your GP might ask you to wait to see if your child gets better. Or if they respond to treatment such as antibiotics.
There are general guidelines for all suspected childhood cancer referrals. These guidelines vary slightly between the different UK nations. Some symptoms might mean your child sees a specialist immediately. Or you may have to wait a few days or weeks.
The first professional your child might see is a specialist children’s doctor. These doctors are called paediatricians. Your child is likely to see a specialist eye doctor, called an ophthalmologist, if they have symptoms related to their eyes.
These guidelines are very clear that the GP should take the parent or carers concern about their child into account when deciding about a specialist referral.
Some children can get diagnosed with cancer during tests for other conditions. Other children might get a diagnosis of cancer after needing to go to Accident and Emergency (A&E). This is because their symptoms came on suddenly.
Seeing your child unwell and then learning about their cancer diagnosis in a short space of time can be very frightening. It might feel like you're in a bad dream that you haven't woken up from. It's important to reach out to family and friends you can talk to, or just take up simple offers of letting them do things for you.
Once diagnosed your child has their care planned by a specialist children’s cancer team. The team is used to planning, treating and caring for children with cancer. They explain everything to you, your child and family. There is lots of practical, emotional and psychological support available.
Last reviewed: 21 Dec 2023
Next review due: 21 Dec 2026
We don't know what causes or how to prevent most childhood cancers. There are some factors that can increase the risk of cancer in children.
Find out where to get help and support for you, your child, your family and friends.
Here are organisations and websites that help and support children with cancer and their family and friends.
In the UK around 1,838 children (aged 0 - 14 years) get diagnosed with cancer each year. Find out out the most common types.
We have more detailed information on some of the more common types of children's cancer.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
What to ask your doctor about clinical trials.
Meet and chat to other cancer people affected by cancer.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
