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Hope Dawns for Pakistan's Children with Cancer
15 Feb
Summary
- 8,000 Pakistani children diagnosed yearly, less than half treated.
- Global survival rates exceed 80%, Pakistan's below 30%.
- Pakistan joins global platform to boost childhood cancer survival.
Childhood cancer is a significant challenge in Pakistan, with approximately 8,000 children diagnosed annually. Sadly, less than half receive proper diagnosis and treatment, leading to survival rates below 30%, a stark contrast to the over 80% seen in high-income countries. Factors contributing to this disparity include limited paediatric oncology centres and high treatment abandonment rates.
Ashfaq's story highlights the devastating impact of delayed diagnosis and financial hardship. After a prolonged illness, he was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and, through dedicated treatment and support, has entered remission. His recovery, made possible by free treatment at the National Institute of Child Health (NICH), showcases what is achievable but remains an exception.
In a significant step forward, Pakistan became the second country in the WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region to join the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines in July 2025. This initiative aims to increase survival rates from the current 30% to 60% by 2030, by addressing treatment access issues and standardizing care.
The commitment from the Pakistani government, the Pakistan Society of Paediatric Oncology (PSPO), and national stakeholders is crucial for building research infrastructure and improving outcomes. The question remains whether these efforts will reach all children in time to combat this disease.
