A diagnosis of childhood cancer 50 years ago meant almost certain death. Now, because of scientific advances, the majority of newly diagnosed children can expect to survive. The current special issue of Chronic Illness, available free online until March, explores the history and advances of childhood cancer research while looking at an exciting new era of research.

The special issue presents key articles of interest to caregivers and those who suffer from childhood cancer; articles that:

• consider the history of leukemia, and how different societies have looked at the ethics of using chemotherapy on children
• describe new research based on identifying the many variations of cancer, making it possible for treatment to target these sub-types more precisely
• show how the cancer experience is different for kids (compared to adults), how teens with cancer experience discrimination and stigma in public, and what can be done to improve the overall experience of young patients

“Childhood cancer remains an important threat to life – it is the second leading cause of death in children, exceeded only by accidents,” writes Mary Dixon-Woods, Chronic Illness editor. “However, it is increasingly important to understand what it means to live with cancer and what it means to survive it. We are perhaps not used to thinking of cancer as a chronic illness, but our special issue suggests that a new approach to how we view cancer may well be needed.”

Online version available here.