Free childhood cancer medicines: Pakistan, WHO launch life-saving initiative

Pakistan and WHO launch life-saving initiative to provide free childhood cancer medicines

ISLAMABAD: Thousands of children in Pakistan affected by cancer now have renewed hope as the country embarks on a landmark life-saving initiative in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). Over 8,000 new cases of childhood cancer are diagnosed in Pakistan every year, yet survival rates remain critically low — around 30% — due to limited access to quality treatment.

In a historic step to change this scenario, four hospitals across Pakistan are preparing to receive free, quality-assured childhood cancer medicines under the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines, a WHO-coordinated programme co-founded with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and supported by UNICEF for procurement and delivery.

The programme is part of Pakistan’s formal participation in the Global Platform, which was finalized on 29 July 2025, making Pakistan the second country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to join. It aims to ensure an uninterrupted supply of certified cancer medicines, strengthen health systems, and support provincial authorities with technical guidance and operational resources.

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As International Childhood Cancer Day approaches on 15 February, hospitals are implementing expert recommendations following visits by international missions from the Global Platform in August 2025 and January–February 2026. Seven additional hospitals are set to receive medicines in 2027 once they meet technical readiness standards.

“Every child has the right to receive quality cancer treatment, regardless of economic status, location, or background. No child should die because of lack of access to medicine,” said Dr. Luo Dapeng, WHO Representative in Pakistan. “We are committed to working side by side with Pakistan to save lives and ensure no child is left behind.”

The initiative targets an ambitious goal: raising the survival rate for childhood cancer from 30% to 60% by 2030. Globally, nearly 400,000 children develop cancer annually, with 90% residing in low- and middle-income countries, where survival rates remain below 30%.

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By providing free, quality-assured medicines, coupled with health system strengthening, this initiative promises to transform pediatric oncology care in Pakistan, offering both hope and tangible solutions for children and families battling cancer.

This landmark collaboration between Pakistan and WHO highlights the nation’s commitment to child health, equitable care, and global health partnerships, marking a historic milestone in public health and cancer care for Pakistan’s youngest patients.

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