<p>15<sup>th</sup> February marks International Childhood Cancer Day, a vital reminder that early detection and timely referral to Paediatric Oncology can mean the difference between life and death for many children battling cancer. In Pakistan, where approximately 8,000 children are diagnosed with cancer every year, the stakes are particularly high. As part of the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), Pakistan has committed its efforts to increase survival rates to 60% by 2030. However, the reality remains stark: studies show that globally, only about 20% of children diagnosed with cancer in low- and middle-income countries survive. </p><p><strong>The Challenge of Early Detection </strong><strong> </strong></p><p>One of the biggest challenges in combating childhood cancer is early detection, which is often missed due to a lack of awareness among both parents and medical practitioners. Symptoms of childhood cancer can be vague and easily mistaken for common childhood illnesses. For instance, prolonged high fevers —a key symptom of Leukemia and Lymphomas, which account for 31% and 20% of childhood cancers in Pakistan, respectively—are often dismissed until it's too late. Delayed diagnosis and treatment significantly reduce survival chances, turning an already daunting diagnosis into an even more dire situation.</p><p><strong>A Call for Greater Awareness and Action</strong> </p><p>Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Paediatricians must prioritise early screening and maintain a high index of suspicion for possible malignancies. At the same time, parents play a critical role—educating families about the warning signs of childhood cancers empowers them to seek timely medical advice. Every child has the right to enjoy a full and healthy life, and awareness is key to ensuring that right is realised.</p><p>The potential for change is significant. Research shows that with timely intervention, survival rates for childhood cancers can be remarkably high. Treatments such as Chemotherapy and Radiation have shown encouraging long-term survival rates, transforming cancer from a death sentence into a manageable illness. By raising awareness about the types of cures and therapies available in Pakistan and emphasising the critical importance of early detection, we can ensure that timely treatment becomes the norm rather than the exception. </p><p><strong>A Collective Responsibility</strong></p><p>Creating lasting change requires a collective effort from paediatricians, general practitioners, families, and the broader community. Paediatricians must lead the charge by engaging in community education programmes, ensuring that parents are informed about cancer warning signs. General practitioners, often the first point of contact for many families, must be equipped to recognise early symptoms and promptly refer patients to specialised care.</p><p>Families must know that effective treatments exist and that they are not alone in this fight. Access to support networks and educational resources can empower parents to take swift action and advocate for their child's health. </p><p>Through sustained awareness efforts and unwavering commitment, we can ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer receives the timely and appropriate care they need to survive and thrive. Only then can we give every child the fighting chance they deserve.
</p><p><strong><em>Author:</em></strong><em> </em><a href="/pakistan/patientservices/pages/profiles.aspx?ProfileID=166&Name=Zehra+Fadoo&page=findadoctor"><em>Dr Zehra Fadoo</em></a><em>, Chair, Department of Oncology, The Aga Khan University Hospital</em></p><p><strong>Note: </strong>This article was originally published as a Letter-to-the-Editor in <a href="https://tribune.com.pk/epaper/news/Karachi/2025-02-14/MGYxZmM1NzY1NjlmMTI2OWMzNjVmZmU1YmM5MzFkYWQuanBlZw">The Express Tribune</a>.
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