Cancer is the second biggest killer of children in the United States after accidents.
In the U.S., the incidence of two types of childhood cancers has risen significantly over the past 15 years. Due to improvements in treatment, it is estimated that by the year 2010, one in every 250 people will be a survivor of childhood cancer. Children frequently have a more advanced stage of cancer when they are first diagnosed. Most adult cancers result from lifestyle factors, such as smoking, diet, occupation, and other exposure to cancer-causing agents. The causes of most childhood cancers are not yet known.