The Real Cost of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer

Each year, approximately 200 children/adolescents are diagnosed with cancer. Families and adult survivors face many challenges as a result, not least financial. 

Real Cost of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer research

In 2021, the Irish Cancer Society asked Core Research to examine the financial impact of a childhood and adolescent cancer diagnosis. The research involved an online questionnaire and an online community in which parents/guardians and adult survivors could share their experience. 

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Costs for parents/guardians

Following their child’s diagnosis, parents/guardians reported

  • a loss of personal monthly income, an average of €1,280
  • medication is a significant expense
  • mental health supports are necessary but costly
  • costs associated with attending appointments are a significant burden for families as they face a range of costs, including education support, to one-off costs such as wigs and hair pieces
  • parents also faced additional day-to-day expenses such as food costs, clothing and mobile data 

Costs for adult survivors

Costs reported by adult survivors of childhood/adolescent cancer include the following

  • Ongoing medical costs
  • Ongoing health impacts
  • Impact on access to finance and insurance premiums 
  • Adverse effects on career or education

Read the full report

Report: Real Cost of Childhood and adolescent Cancer
Report: Real Cost of Childhood and adolescent Cancer
Booklet 14 6.53MB
2021 report on the costs of a childhood cancer diagnosis based on Core research commissioned by the Irish Cancer Society

We're here if you need support

If your family is facing a childhood, adolescent or young adult diagnosis we have a range of supports to help

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The Irish Cancer Society's Children’s Cancer Nurse at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin Hospital one day per week provides free, confidential advice, support and information to anyone affected by a child’s cancer.  

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We provide a grant of €3,000 for families of children under 18yrs diagnosed with cancer, supporting families with the cost of a cancer diagnosis.