WHO to Provide Free Cancer Medicines
Pakistan has now become the second nation in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to join the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines. This initiative is focused on enhancing access to crucial treatments for young cancer patients. The program aims to tackle the treatment gap that currently impacts over half of the children diagnosed and hopes to boost the national survival rate from 30% to 60% by 2030, .
The agreement was signed by Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal and WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr. Dapeng Luo, and it will be in effect until December 31, 2027, with a chance for extension if both parties agree.
According to the agreement, Pakistan will receive free, quality-assured cancer medications for more than 8,000 children diagnosed with cancer annually. The limited availability of treatment has significantly contributed to the lower survival rates in Pakistan, especially when compared to around 80% in wealthier nations.
Initiated in 2021 by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the WHO, the Global Platform guarantees a consistent supply of certified cancer drugs to low- and middle-income countries. UNICEF will take care of the procurement and delivery to Pakistan.
In addition to providing medicine, WHO will keep helping Pakistan’s federal and provincial health departments by offering technical know-how, resources, and operational support to boost the nation’s battle against childhood cancer.
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