KMIO framing complete state childhood cancer policy to place it as a national guideline

The Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO) in Karnataka is crafting a comprehensive childhood cancer policy for the state, aspiring to set a national standard for accessibility to treatment. Aligned with global efforts, the policy aims to address challenges in childhood cancer care, coinciding with International Childhood Cancer Day. KMIO stresses the urgency of early diagnosis and treatment initiation, advocating for collaborative government policies and community engagement. The policy targets understanding the incidence and distribution of childhood cancers in Karnataka and proposes a national health program for implementation. KMIO's approach involves a hospital-based cancer registry and collaborative studies to bridge treatment gaps regionally. Despite India's high childhood cancer burden, issues like delayed diagnosis and limited access to specialized care persist. Operational data from KMIO highlights its significant patient load and regional reach, emphasizing the need for prompt access to pediatric oncology services. Tackling these challenges requires concerted efforts to ensure equitable access to quality care for all pediatric cancer patients.