For families dealing with the realities of pediatric cancer, that holiday “thrill of hope” might seem far away. But even when things seem dark, know that there are BIG reasons to feel hopeful in the fight against childhood cancer, thanks to advances in medicine, research, and community support.

Here are just a few things giving us hope this holiday season:

8 Reasons to Have Hope Against Childhood Cancer

Reason #1 – Improved Survival Rates

The survival rates for many childhood cancers have increased significantly over the past few decades. For instance, the overall survival rate for childhood cancers in the U.S. is now about 85%. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for pediatric cancer was just 58% in the 1970s. We’ve come a long way in just a few short decades!

Even if survivorship varies between types of cancer, some, like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), have seen survival rates climb to over 90% with modern treatments. That’s pretty incredible!

Reason #2 – Advancements in Research

• Targeted Therapies: Research into the molecular and genetic mechanisms of cancer led to the development of targeted therapies that attack cancer cells with minimal harm to surrounding healthy cells. The collateral damage to normal cells alongside cancerous cells has been a significant obstacle in balancing effective treatment and harmful side effects. 

• Immunotherapy: Innovative treatments like CAR-T cell therapy harness the immune system to fight cancers, providing hope for even the most resistant cases.

• Precision Medicine: Treatments are becoming more personalized, based on a child’s genetic makeup and the specific characteristics of their cancer. The more personal and tailored the approach, the better the outcomes. No patient is the same, and doctors are no longer using a one-size-fits-all approach to childhood cancers.

Reason #3 – Early Detection and Diagnosis

Improved diagnostic tools and techniques allow for earlier detection and more precise treatment plans. Early detection is key to improving prognoses. Because parents and pediatricians are more attuned to potential symptoms and have the right tools, cancer can be treated before it has the chance to advance too far.

Reason #4 – Less Toxic Treatments

Efforts to reduce the long-term side effects of cancer treatment have led to the development of less toxic chemotherapies and the refinement of radiation therapy techniques. As we mentioned, targeted therapies reduce the damage to normal cells when treating cancer. These safer ways of eradicating cancerous cells significantly improve survivors’ long-term quality of life.

Reason #5 – Support for Survivors

There is growing attention to the quality of life for childhood cancer survivors, with better management of long-term side effects and a focus on mental health support. More and more physicians and therapists recognize the need for a holistic approach to cancer care. They understand that this isn’t just about getting rid of a disease but the long-term emotional, physical, and mental impact. The proper supports in place – from support groups and therapies to medications to curb side effects – mean children are given the very best chance to live a fulfilling and healthy life after cancer.

Reason #6 – Collaborative Efforts

Global collaborations among researchers, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups are accelerating progress. Initiatives like the Pediatric Cancer Genome Project are uncovering new insights into the genetic drivers of childhood cancers. St. Jude is just one of many hospitals and organizations partnering to share data with researchers and physicians worldwide. Now more than ever, we’re equipped to leverage global breakthroughs.

Reason #7 – Breakthrough Treatments

Recent FDA approvals for innovative therapies and ongoing clinical trials are continuously expanding the arsenal of effective treatments for childhood cancers. Looking at the list of FDA approvals for pediatric oncology, we see a noticeable increase in approvals per year and fewer gaps between years. There were 10 approvals per year in 2024 and 2023. In 2006, there were only two approvals…followed by a three-year gap until a single drug approval in 2010!

Reason #8 – Community Support and Advocacy

Families and patients are supported by a network of organizations offering financial, emotional, and logistical help, reducing the burden of treatment and recovery. We’re more aware now of the needs of families facing pediatric cancer. Today, there are more than 200 pediatric cancer care centers in the U.S. and countless nonprofits – meaning that patients have more access than ever to treatment, care, and support. 

The fight against childhood cancer is far from over, but we’ve made great strides against this disease. Advancements in science, technology, and medicine bring quality survivorship into reach for countless children. 

Hold on to hope…join us as we partner with brave kids kicking cancer!