Timely Intervention: Saving Young Lives from Cancer

On International Childhood Cancer Day, doctors stress that early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve survival rates in childhood cancer. Experts highlight the different nature of childhood cancers versus adult ones, and the hospital's efforts in providing free treatments to young patients in need.

On International Childhood Cancer Day, a panel of medical experts underscored the life-saving potential of early diagnosis and effective treatment for childhood cancers. According to specialists, timely intervention can lead to a recovery rate of over 80 percent among affected children.

Pediatric oncologist Dr. Shivani Mathur notes major distinctions between childhood and adult cancers, including a tendency for rapid progression and a requirement for specialized treatment. The most prevalent childhood cancers, such as blood cancer, brain tumors, kidney cancer, and bone cancer, often yield higher recovery rates.

Dr. Upendra Sharma from the Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital shared insights from the National Cancer Registry Programme, revealing that around four percent of total cancer cases in India are among children, with approximately 50,000 new cases annually. Initiatives like ''Jeevandan'' and others have successfully treated hundreds of children, offering critical, free treatment options and improving survival odds.

(With inputs from agencies.)