Research priority setting in childhood cancer: An integrative review

Identifying research priorities for childhood cancer through lived experiences is an evolving process that supports efficient and relevant research. This review identifies and synthesises research priority setting methods and research priorities in childhood cancer. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL for studies published between 2014 and 2026 that elicited research priorities for childhood cancer. From 1892, screened titles, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (n = 12, 80%) addressed childhood cancer broadly, while three focused on specific aspects. All studies employed multi-phase approaches to collect and prioritise research questions from various stakeholders. Sampling varied: ten studies engaged multiple stakeholder groups, four included only healthcare professionals, and one focused exclusively on young people. None reported implementation or evaluation aspects of the identified priorities. We categorised 124 reported priorities into seven themes, with most concentrated on cancer survivorship and outcomes research (n = 72, 58.1%). While systematic methods are increasingly adopted, gaps remain in meaningful engagement of young people and in strategies to assess uptake and translation of priorities into actionable research. Future prioritisation efforts should adopt inclusive frameworks that promote meaningful stakeholder engagement and develop strategies to assess the uptake, translation, and impact of identified priorities.