Childhood Cancer Research Group at the University of Bern

The Childhood Cancer Research Group investigates possible causes of childhood cancer. It also follows up on long-term outcomes of people who had cancer as a child or adolescent. The significant Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (SCCSS) interviews people who had cancer in childhood and adolescence and can thus examine possible late effects, quality of life and well-being in relevant areas of life. The results of the research will help to adapt treatment and follow-up care even better to the needs of children and families in the future. In this way, it can be ensured that they have the best possible support long after the end of therapy and can enjoy a high quality of life. The research questions are current and relevant, and often come from affected families or from clinical practice.

The Childhood Cancer Research Group works closely with researchers from other countries, such as the pan-European network for care of survivors after childhood and adolescent cancer (PanCare). Its infrastructure has been continuously extended since 2007 and has a long-term perspective. It continuously trains up-and-coming researchers in the field of childhood cancer. Thanks to the Group’s work, countless research projects have been able to be realised, the results of which can be found in over 100 articles in medical journals. It is seen as a valuable resource for lots of other research projects in the area of childhood cancer.