National childhood cancer comprehensive management policy-a road map

Abstract

Author(s): Arun Kumar AR, BS Aruna Kumari, C Ramachandra, Vijay CR, Ramesh C, Appaji L, Avinash T, Noopur Nelson, Govardhan HB

Background: In India, the burden of delay in early diagnosis of childhood cancer and treatment is higher than previously suggested. Government policies in collaboration with all sections of society are required to improve care for children with cancer. This proposal outlines an early diagnosis and shared care model integrating palliative care into paediatric oncology with civil society participation in Karnataka, thereby the implementation of a National Policy. Objectives: 1. To identify the incidence, pattern, region and district-wide distribution of childhood cancers in Karnataka. 2. To formulate a draft state childhood cancer comprehensive management policy 3. To Identify a National Health Programme/s formulate a pathway to implement the policy. The Methodology of Preparing this Proposal: Hospital Based Cancer Registry was analyzed, World Health Organization’s (WHO) resources were searched, and communication with Government authorities for policy implementation followed by focused group discussion with concerned faculty and representatives. Results: 3305 childhood malignancies (0-18 years) were registered between the Year 2010-2015. 85.26% hailed from Karnataka. 60.9% were Boys and 42.2% were 7-14 Years. Focused group discussion resulted in the formulation of the referral pathway, shared care model integrating palliative care services and creation of a platform for civil society organizations’ participation. Conclusion: A comprehensive childhood cancer policy ensuring early diagnosis through a shared care model and integrating palliative care into paediatric oncology practice in the form of well-structured and collective studies conducted are required to evolve a national collaborative policy aiming at reduction in the geographical gaps in treatment facilities. the same model may be incorporated into the management of other Childhood conditions.

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