The future of pediatric oncology: Comprehensive review of causes, mortality, and treatment strategies

Pharmacy Practice

  • Jana Farrash1Pharm.D. Program, Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacology Department, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, 22421, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Nujud Alessa2Department of Medicine and Surgery, King Faisal University, Alhufof, Saudi Arabia.
  • Fatima Almuammar3College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Alahsa, Saudi Arabia.
  • Rana Almuqati4Department of Medicine and Surgery, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
  • Yara Alghamdi5Medical Intern, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
  • Fatimah Alsultan6College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-ahsa, Saudi Arabia.
  • Areej A. Alghamdi7Community Pharmacist, Adawaa Pharmacy, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia.
  • Luluh Alomaym8Medical Intern, College of Medicine, Hail University, Hail, Saudi Arabia.
  • Maryam T. Alotaibi9Pharmacy Department, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, King Abdullah Specialized Children's Hospital, Riyadh, 13342, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Sara Alqahtani10Department of Pharmacy, Abha Intel. Private Hospital, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Refal Aljali11Department of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, KSA.
  • Leen Alziad11Department of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, KSA.
  • Abdullah Alzahrani12Department of Pharmacy, Umm-Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA.
  • Abdulrahman Akshah11Department of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, KSA.
  • Faris Mohammed13Department of Pharmacy, Al-Dawaa Medical Services Co., Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

Volume 23 Issue 4 Pages 1-15

DOI: 10.18549/PharmPract.2025.4.3215

Abstract

Pediatric oncology is confronting rising cancer rates among children, which poses a significant global health challenge. This review article delves into the multifaceted aspects of pediatric cancers, including their etiology, advanced diagnostic methods, and comprehensive treatment approaches. The article explores both genetic predispositions and environmental factors that contribute to the development of cancer in children. It underscores the importance of cutting-edge diagnostic tools such as next-generation sequencing and liquid biopsies. These technologies have revolutionized our understanding of cancer's molecular basis, leading to more precise diagnoses and enabling personalized treatment regimens. In terms of treatment, the review discusses traditional methods like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, target therapy, stem cell transplant and surgical interventions. It also sheds light on innovative therapies such as immunotherapy and targeted treatments that have shown promise in improving survival rates while minimizing adverse effects. The review also addresses the stark disparities in healthcare access and survival rates between developed and developing countries. It emphasizes the critical need for global efforts to provide equitable care to all pediatric cancer patients. Looking ahead, the article highlights the potential of personalized medicine to transform pediatric oncology. It also points to emerging therapies and international collaborations as key factors in advancing care and outcomes for young patients with cancer. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. It provides a thorough analysis of current challenges in pediatric oncology and offers a forward-looking perspective on opportunities for future advancements.

Keywords

  • Pediatric oncology
  • Mortality ratio
  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Challenges
  • Future strategies
Pharmacy Practice

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