PRESS RELEASE International Childhood Cancer Day 2026

Athens, 15 February 2026

International Childhood Cancer Day

On the occasion of International Childhood Cancer Day, observed annually on 15 February, the Hellenic Society of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology (HeSPHO) sends a message of hope, responsibility, and continued commitment in the fight against childhood and adolescent cancer.

In Greece, as throughout Europe, it is estimated that nearly one child is diagnosed with cancer every day. Thanks to continuous advances in diagnosis, treatment, and participation in European collaborative research protocols, approximately four out of five children are now cured, while survival rates exceed 90% for certain malignancies. Nevertheless, some childhood cancers continue to have lower cure rates, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing and intensified research.

Contemporary evidence-based medicine and a holistic approach to the care of children and adolescents with cancer—from diagnosis through treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term follow-up—constitute the foundation of the high-quality care provided in Greece.

Our diagnostic and therapeutic armamentarium includes advanced molecular genetic diagnostics, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, CAR-T cell therapies, and precision medicine approaches. Importantly, all these state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic modalities are available and performed in Greece.

HeSPHO -representing all clinical departments of Paed Haem Onc and the one BMT UNIT for Children and Adolescents of the Countryremains committed not only to achieving cure but also to safeguarding the quality of life of children and adolescents during and after cancer treatment. Structured long-term survivorship care, comprehensive follow-up for late effects, the development of paediatric palliative care services, psychosocial support for patients and their families, and dedicated care for adolescents and young adults remain among our highest priorities.

As part of this year’s campaign, the International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) initiative has released the official ICCD Toolkit 2026, providing ready-to-use communication materials for organizations, institutions, and supporters worldwide. The toolkit includes social media graphics and templates, logos, posters, letters, email signatures, an official press release template, and multilingual resources designed to promote equitable access to quality cancer care for every child, everywhere.

The Hellenic Society of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology actively participates in international scientific organizations, collaborative clinical trials, and research networks, ensuring that the latest advances in paediatric oncology are rapidly translated into everyday clinical practice in Greece.

Close collaboration with the State and the Ministry of Health, remains essential. HeSPHO has submitted proposals for the implementation of a comprehensive National Cancer Strategy Plan, with dedicated provisions for children and adolescents, including strategic interventions and institutional reforms aimed at further improving paediatric oncology services across the country.

Adequate staffing of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Departments, Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Blood Banks, Diagnostic Laboratories, and Hospital Pharmacies—with physicians, nurses, pharmacists, biologists, and administrative personnel—together with continued investment in modern infrastructure, is fundamental to maintaining and further enhancing the quality of care provided to children with cancer.

International Childhood Cancer Day is dedicated:

• to the children and adolescents who face cancer with extraordinary courage;
• to their families, who stand beside them every step of the way;
• to the healthcare professionals who serve both science and humanity with dedication;
• to the parents’ associations, volunteers, and charitable organizations that provide invaluable support;
• and to the Memory of the children who are no longer with us.

We also take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of voluntary blood donation, stem cell donor registration, and continued public support for organizations caring for children with cancer and their families.

With a profound sense of responsibility and unwavering confidence in the power of science and collaboration, the members of the Hellenic Society of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology remain fully committed to achieving cure, ensuring equitable access to the highest standards of care for every child and adolescent with cancer, and providing every survivor with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed throughout life.