OncoDaily, in partnership with the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP), is excited to announce the Second Global OncoThon, a 24-hour virtual event aimed at raising vital funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research. Set to take place on February 15, 2025, in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Day, this global telethon will bring together individuals and organizations from around the world to work toward a common goal: ensuring every child has the opportunity for a cancer-free future.
Childhood cancer remains one of the leading causes of death by disease in children aged 1 to 19. Unfortunately, there are significantly fewer drugs approved for pediatric cancer compared to over 200 approved for adults. Each year, nearly half a million children are diagnosed with cancer, and hundreds of thousands of lives are lost globally. Despite this, childhood cancer is still classified as a rare disease. The pharmaceutical industry and venture capitalists often show limited interest in supporting initiatives beyond academic research due to the smaller market size of pediatric cancer compared to adult cancers. Without industry leadership, the approval of new drugs for pediatric cancer becomes nearly impossible.
This event will be a day dedicated to connection, compassion, and action. It provides an opportunity for everyone to unite and declare that no child should ever have to face cancer alone. The Second Global OncoThon is our moment to inspire change and push for the breakthroughs that every child deserves.
