A survey of pediatric malignancy in West Virginia.

The occurrence of malignancy in the pediatric age group is an uncommon but serious event. Since little data are available on the extent, nature or referral patterns of childhood cancer in West Virginia, we conducted a survey of 782 primary care physicians and 17 regional referral centers. The results showed that 249 cases of malignancy in the pediatric age group were reported and that 68% of children with newly diagnosed childhood malignancy were referred to institutions within West Virginia. We conclude that the incidence and distribution of types of malignancy in childhood in West Virginia parallels that of the nation, although there is some regional variation within the state.