Approximately 100 children are yearly diagnosed with malignant tumors and are placed under supervision. “The cases of leukemia are leading, being followed by brain tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, bone tumors and lymphomas. In 2021, we placed 88 children with malignant tumors under supervision. About 400-450 children with cancer are now under the supervision of the Oncological Institute. They are receiving treatment. Each of them come for checkups at least once a year,” Natalia Lisița, head of the Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Division, stated for IPN when contacted in connection with the International Childhood Cancer Day that is celebrated on February 15.
“Childhood cancer is diverse. We have over 20 types of tumors. Owing to the treatment we administer at the Oncological Institute, we have a survival rate of up to 80% in the case of leukemia, for example. There are countries where the given figure is of 20-30%,” stated Natalia Lisița.
She noted that 30-35 children are now receiving treatment in their Division. About 40 children are admitted weekly for treatment. Owing to migration, the number of sick children changes permanently. Some of them emigrate to other countries together with their parents. “International statistics show the number of cases of cancer in children grows annually, as does cancer morbidity among children,” said Natalia Lisița.
She noted that the International Childhood Cancer Day is aimed at raising society’s awareness of children who suffer so that the people support them and bring more joy to them.
