Loizos G. Loizou, Head of Cyprus International Action Plan for Children with Cancer at ELPIDA Foundation for Children with Cancer, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“My friends,
February 15, 2026 — World Childhood Cancer Day
Today we stand in solidarity with children and adolescents facing cancer around the world and reaffirm our responsibility to ensure equitable access to care and improve cure rates globally.
For nearly 40 years I have had the privilege — and the profound responsibility — of standing with children and adolescents facing cancer.
I have witnessed courage that cannot be described in words.
I have seen families endure extremely difficult trials.
And I have seen what can be achieved when science, humanity and organization come together.
Childhood cancer remains one of the leading causes of death from disease in children worldwide.
However, survival rates vary dramatically depending on where a child is born and lives.
In many high-income countries, cure rates exceed 80%. In several low- and middle-income countries, survival may still remain below 30%.
These differences reflect disparities in access to early diagnosis, organized treatment protocols, essential medications, and specialized care.
World Childhood Cancer Day isn’t just about raising awareness — it’s about action.
Through the Cyprus International Action Plan on Childhood Cancer (Cy-IAPCC) we are working to:
- Reducing global health inequalities
- Strengthening paediatric oncology systems in countries with limited resources
- Access to essential medications and organized treatment protocols
- Development of national childhood and adolescent cancer registries
- Telemedicine and international collaboration between specialists
- Training of health professionals and informing the public
- Evidence-based video educational initiatives for healthcare professionals and the general public
- Rational use of medicines and prevention through responsible information.
Every child, everywhere in the world, has the right to optimal care.
Today we honor the children who struggle, the survivors who inspire us, the families who carry the burden, and the health professionals who dedicate their lives to this cause.
Our responsibility is clear. And our commitment continues.”
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