Teenage Cancer Trust

Every day in the UK, up to 6 teenagers or young adults (between the ages of 13 and 24) will find out they have cancer. That is approximately 2,100 new cases a year.

These young people, in the midst of their already difficult journey to adulthood, suddenly find themselves faced with a possible life-threatening illness and very often receiving treatment in inappropriate facilities with inadequate support options. Until the age of 16 a teenager is likely to be treated in a paediatric ward alongside toddlers. If the same teen was diagnosed after turning 16 then they are likely to end up in an adult ward with elderly patients.

Cancer accounts for 11% of all deaths amongst 13-24 year-olds in the UK and is the most common cause of non-accidental death at this age. Incidence rates are now higher in teenagers and young adults than in children, yet survival rates fall behind those of children and older adults.

Teenage Cancer Trust exists to ensure that teenagers and young adults are diagnosed efficiently, treated effectively, and have the support they need to make it through their treatment and rebuild their lives after cancer.