International Childhood Cancer Day observed at Rainbow

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

On the occasion of International Childhood Cancer Day (February 15), Rainbow Children’s Hospital organized a special awareness and engagement program for children undergoing cancer treatment. Around 45 children participated enthusiastically in the event, which featured cultural activities, a magic show, and a painting session, bringing joy and positivity to the young participants.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sirisha Rani, Senior Consultant & Lead – Pediatric Hemato Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, emphasized the growing concern of childhood cancers. She noted that the rise in incidence is due both to an actual increase in cases and improved awareness among the public.

Globally, approximately 4 lakh children are affected by cancer, while in India nearly 60,000 new cases are diagnosed every year. To address this gap, the World Health Organization has launched a global initiative aimed at improving childhood cancer survival rates by 2030.

Dr. Sirisha Rani stressed that early recognition of symptoms and timely referral to specialized centers are crucial for successful treatment. 

With chemotherapy and comprehensive supportive care, survival rates have improved significantly. Today, 85–90% of childhood cancers can be cured with chemotherapy/ surgery/ radiation. High-risk and relapsed cases, such as relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), are also getting cured with stem cells transformation.