Researchers have found that childhood cancers may spread by 'shape-shifting' rather than mutating. For years, experts believed cancers become more dangerous by accumulating genetic mutations that allow them to invade new tissues and evade treatment. But a new paper shows how childhood cancers may not always need extra mutations to spread. 

Instead, the authors say cancer cells may be able to "shape-shift" into different cellular states - switching between behaviours that help them grow, survive treatment and spread to other organs. 

Crucially, the authors say that the process may be reversible. And they hope that their work could one day lead to new types of treatment, or even modifying treatments already available. 

A simple question could change cancer care. Flinders University researchers say routinely asking cancer patients how they’re feeling, and acting on the answer, can flag problems such as pain, fatigue, anxiety and treatment side effects before they escalate. The approach, known as patient-reported outcomes, is helping patients get support sooner, improve quality of life and avoid unnecessary hospital visits, with programs already expanding across Australia.