[The decline in mortality in leukemia and malignant tumors in children]

This study is an analysis of the mortality, due to malignant tumours and leukemia in Dutch children (0-14 years), based on data obtained from the 'Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek' (Netherlands Central Bureau of Statistics). In the period 1971-1983, this mortality showed a gradual decrease. The mortality of leukemia and lymphomas, which contribute about 50% of all childhood cancer, contributed a major part to this decrease. The solid tumours have also shown a decrease in mortality. The registered mortality of brain tumours increased. The decrease in mortality had already begun before the centralization of treatment had been started in 1974/'75. Detailed research into the influence of centralization on mortality is required. The authors also recommend research into the apparent increase in mortality of brain tumours.