Increasing Childhood Cancer Survival Rate From 20% To 90%
Childhood Cancer cancer refers to cancers that occur in children and adolescents, typically from birth through 18 years of age. Unlike adult cancers, which are often associated with environmental or lifestyle factors, pediatric cancers usually arise from random genetic mutations during early development. These cancers tend to be more aggressive, but they also often respond more effectively to treatment compared to adult cancers.
Childhood cancer affects over 400,000 children annually across the globe. While some of the most common types, such as leukemia, neuroblastoma, and brain tumors, are treatable when detected early, survival rates vary significantly between high-income and low- to middle-income countries (LMICs). In high-income countries, where healthcare infrastructure is more advanced, survival rates for many childhood cancers are as high as 80-90%.
Causes of Paediatric Cancer Low Survival Rates However, in LMICs, survival rates can be as low as 20%, mainly due to late diagnosis, lack of specialized care, and limited access to essential medicines and treatments. Pediatric cancer is a growing health challenge in Kenya, where an estimated 3,200 new cases are diagnosed in children and adolescents each year. However, many cases go unreported due to healthcare access and early diagnosis challenges, meaning the actual number could be significantly higher.
In Kenya, survival rates for pediatric cancers are considerably lower than in high-income countries, largely due to:
- late-stage diagnosis,
- limited availability of specialized treatment,
- insufficient healthcare infrastructure.
The survival rate is estimated at around 20-30%, compared to the 80-90% in developed countries. Delays in seeking medical attention, misdiagnosis, and long travel distances to cancer treatment centers further complicate the situation.
Childhood Cancer Treatment Options
Despite the challenges and the aggressive nature of many pediatric cancers, advances in medical research and treatment have significantly improved survival rates over the past few decades. Therapies such as chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy and stem cell transplants have become the standard of care, tailored specifically for younger patients.
However, pediatric cancer remains a global health concern due to the complexity of treatment, potential long-term effects on the physical and emotional development of children and disparities in outcomes across different regions of the world.
Addressing the burden of childhood cancer requires dedicated research, improved healthcare systems and increased awareness and policies that prioritize the needs of the youngest patients.
Symptoms of Pediatric Cancers
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent fever
- Bruising or bleeding
- Unexplained fatigue
- Swelling or lumps in the abdomen, neck, or limbs
- Chronic pain or headaches
- Changes in vision or balance
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking medical care increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. Moreover, raising awareness helps reduce stigma and misconceptions about cancer, which can prevent families from seeking timely medical attention.
Supporting Children and Families
Beyond medical treatment, children with cancer and their families face significant emotional, psychological, and financial challenges. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month emphasizes the importance of support networks—from healthcare professionals providing compassionate care to community organizations offering resources and emotional support for families navigating the problematic cancer treatment journey.
Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital (KUTRRH) spearheads efforts to enhance pediatric cancer care through specialized wings like the Athi Pediatric Wing. By combining advanced medical care, public awareness, and support for families, these institutions are making a notable contribution in the fight against childhood cancer.