Why choose Cook Children’s Oncology Program
We care for children, teens and young adults with cancer using the most effective treatments available. Just as important, we deliver this care with the compassion your family deserves. Our world-class team offers vast expertise in easing symptoms, supporting healing and focusing on your child's well-being.
Choosing Cook Children’s for cancer treatment
We help children achieve exceptional results, even for cancers that are difficult to treat or return after initial therapy. And our genuine concern for your family helps you feel cared for every step of the way.
U.S. News & World Report has recognized Cook Children's as one of the nation’s leading pediatric cancer centers. This honor reflects our commitment to safe, effective care and our ongoing work to bring the latest treatment approaches to the children and families we serve.
Our experts tailor treatment based on your child's age, diagnosis and other factors. When appropriate, we use precision medicine, which includes advanced testing to understand the genetic makeup of a tumor. These tests may help guide treatment decisions that include using focused therapies with fewer side effects.
Adolescents and young adults face a unique set of challenges when it comes to a cancer diagnosis. That's why we offer spaces just for them, along with programs designed to help them feel more at ease, understood and supported. Get more information about our AYA Program.
We understand how heavy a cancer diagnosis can feel. Our team is here to help carry this weight, offering assistance that's thoughtful and always centered on your family. Child life specialists provide emotional support. Palliative care providers manage symptoms and help you make important care decisions. Explore family support and resources.
Advancing pediatric cancer care
At Cook Children's, you'll discover a team dedicated to providing personalized, family-centered pediatric cancer care. Our comprehensive treatment options include the latest advancements and are thoughtfully designed to support your child through every phase of treatment. Treatments and services may include:
Chemotherapy before surgery shrinks tumors, making them easier to remove. After surgery, chemo destroys any remaining cancer cells.
This treatment helps your child's immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. Get more information about our Cellular Immunotherapy Program.
These procedures help diagnose and treat tumors throughout the body. Read more about interventional radiology.
We were one of the first programs offering I-131 MIBG therapy for neuroblastoma. It targets tumor cells throughout the body while leaving healthy cells untouched.
We're one of the few programs in the region offering this sophisticated radiation treatment. It targets tumors in the brain and spine more precisely.
Our pediatric oncologists play a vital role in advancing childhood cancer care through research. We participate in prominent research organizations, such as Children's Oncology Group. Clinical trials give eligible patients access to promising new therapies long before they become widely available.
Browse our active oncology research trials.
This treatment provides your child with healthy stem cells to help their body make new, cancer-free blood cells. Read more about stem cell transplants.
Highly skilled surgeons remove as much of the tumor as possible. Our team includes neurosurgeons and orthopedic cancer surgeons specializing in difficult-to-treat tumors.
Your child receives drugs that stop specific cancer cell changes. We go the extra mile to ensure your child receives the options that best meet their needs.
Pediatric cancer care isn't just about treatment. We offer additional services that look beyond the diagnosis and help support your child's long-term health and future.
Our comprehensive approach also includes:
- Fertility preservation: We protect your child's ability to start a family in the future. Our experts explain how cancer treatment may affect your child's fertility. If they wish to receive treatment, we coordinate all the services they need. Read more about fertility preservation.
- Genetic oncology: We help determine whether your child has a higher risk of cancers passed down in families. Special tests find cancer-related genes. We then provide guidance for preventing cancer or catching it early. Explore our Genetic Oncology Clinic.
- Survivorship: After treatment, cancer survivors receive personalized and supportive follow-up care. We address your child's unique health needs, such as care they might need for any late effects of cancer treatment. Learn more about our Life After Cancer Program.