3, Apr 2026
Childhood cancer is a substantial contributor to global childhood mortality and global cancer burden
Seattle, Apr 03: A new study published in The Lancet highlights that childhood cancer remains the eighth-leading cause of death among children globally, with outcomes heavily influenced by access to healthcare resources.
The findings, part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study, were led by researchers from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington School of Medicine and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The study estimates that in 2023, there were approximately 377,000 new cases of childhood cancer worldwide, resulting in 144,000 deaths.
While global childhood cancer mortality has declined by 27% since 1990, the burden remains disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These regions accounted for 85% of new cases, 94% of deaths, and 94% of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in 2023, underscoring stark global inequities.
“While outcomes for many childhood cancers have improved in high-income countries, these gains have not been equitably shared,” said Lisa Force, lead author from IHME. “Delays in diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and systemic healthcare challenges continue to drive disparities in LMICs.”
Urgent Need for Investment in Cancer Care Systems
The study emphasizes that improving survival rates will require significant investment in cancer control systems, particularly in LMICs. Key priorities include:
- Strengthening referral systems for early diagnosis
- Expanding access to chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy
- Enhancing workforce training
- Improving cancer registries and surveillance systems
Regions such as the WHO African and Western Pacific regions reported the highest number of cases, with the WHO African Region experiencing the greatest mortality rates. Notably, deaths in the African region have increased by nearly 56% since 1990.
Most Common Childhood Cancers
The study identified the most burdensome childhood cancers globally as:
- Leukemia
- Brain and central nervous system cancers
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Nearly half of all childhood cancer deaths in 2023 were linked to six key cancers identified under the World Health Organization’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC).
Global Efforts to Improve Survival Rates
World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, continues to advance global initiatives aimed at improving childhood cancer survival rates to at least 60% by 2030.
“These data provide a critical tool to monitor progress and evaluate the global effort to reduce childhood cancer deaths,” said Nickhill Bhakta, senior author and director at St. Jude Global. “Our mission is to ensure equitable access to life-saving care for children worldwide.”
The study underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action to address disparities in childhood cancer outcomes and ensure that advancements in treatment benefit children everywhere, regardless of geography or economic status.
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- By Neel Achary
1, Apr 2026
Autism Awareness Day: Dr. Ketan Patel Stresses Diet & Exercise Benefits
Apr 1: On the eve of World Autism Awareness Day (April 2,2026) Dr Ketan Patel of Specialty Homeopathy said that 80 percent of autism cases can be cured through diet and exercise and in 20 percent of children, medicines are also required along with diet due to metabolic and genetic reasons.
Homeopathy has proven to be very effective in treating in such genetic, metabolic & mitochondrial autism (Syndromic AUTISM). Genetic effects can be largely eliminated or controlled through homeopathic medicines.
Dr Ketan Patel said that the effects of genes affecting sodium channel, potassium channel, aqua channel, epileptic, Encephalopathy, intellectual and other protein disruption can be eliminated up to 90 percent with homeopathic medicines along with diet and exercise. The research of these experts has found that only 10 percent of genes cannot be improved.
Dr Ketan Patel further said that “The protocols for autism treatment of Western countries do not show the effect of treatment in a certain time. There is a shortage of doctors trained to treat autism in India. Therefore, it is necessary for us to improve the protocols of Western countries and formulate our own new protocols. Indian doctors are far ahead in the treatment of autism, compared to Western countries. Therefore, it is necessary for us to implement a new protocol with diet, exercise and individual treatment plan in the treatment of autism.”
Dr Jayesh Sheth said that autism is a type of disease in which children are not mentally retarded, but due to some obstruction or disturbance in the wiring of neurons in their brain, their ability to speak and think is affected. Such a gene problem is found in 50 percent of autism cases. The earlier such children are diagnosed, the more effective the treatment and guidance is.
Dr Patel and Dr Sheth further said that currently, doctors are providing up to Rs. 5,00,000 annually for the treatment, genetic testing and related therapy of more than 100 needy children suffering from autism. In the coming time, doctors from all branches like Allopathic, Homeopathic, Ayurvedic, who are doing treatment and research in the field of autism in Gujarat, are committed to jointly work with the therapists and bring about rapid treatment and improvement.
1 in every 36 children born worldwide is affected by autism. This figure is considered extremely alarming, as the number of children suffering from autism is higher than the percentage of children suffering from life-threatening diseases such as cancer, diabetes and HIV worldwide.
What is autism?
It is a disease affecting the neurological, endocrinal, and gastrointestinal systems, diagnosed in children between the ages of 18 and 24 months and its symptoms are as follows.
– The child does not speak on time or does not speak at all cannot use sentences after speaking a few words.
– Does not make eye contact with family members such as mother, father, brother, sister.
– Does not play with children of the same age group when they are playing and prefers to go away and play alone.
– Laughs and cries for no reason.
– Plays with a toy, object or piece of clothing for a long time, sleeps with it.
– Wiggles fingers, jumps, keeps moving around in one place.
– Holds hands over ears in fear of the sound of mixers, vacuum cleaners, firecrackers.
– Throws things and screams.
– Hurts body with teeth, hits head against wall.
It is advisable that if two or more of the above symptoms are observed in a child take your child to a doctor to get diagnosed with autism and get proper treatment. The earlier your child is diagnosed with autism or a similar condition, the greater the child’s chances of recovering from these symptoms.
– Scientists, doctors, universities, pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies around the world are working to diagnose autism more quickly.
In order to make people aware of this disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day every year and the entire month of April as Autism Awareness Month to spread awareness and information about autism. During this month, famous places around the world are decorated with blue lights. Such as Sydney Opera – Australia, Burj Khalifa – Dubai, Leaning Tower – Italy, London Bridge – UK, Pyramids of Giza – Egypt, Eiffel Tower – France (Paris) are decorated with blue lights.
Diagnosis of autism
This disease, which is seen in children from the age of 18 months to 30 months, cannot be detected by any single test or other medical report such as CT SCAN, MRI SCAN, PET SCAN or EEG so apart from the above report the diagnosis can be made in the following two stages.
In the first stage, to know whether the physical and mental development of the children is happening according to their age or not, the child’s learning ability, his way of speaking, words and sentences along with his facial expressions are studied and recorded and the development rate of the children (Physical & Mental Development) is kept in mind at a certain time interval such as 12 months, 18 months or 24 months i.e. at the age of 2 years. In this above study, the diagnosis is made on the basis of the answers of scientifically prepared questionnaires to the child’s parents, his doctors and the child’s caregivers.
The second stage is diagnosed by doctors who specialize in this disease such as a Developmental Paediatrician, Child Neurologist, Child Psychiatrist/Psychologist (specialist in child neurology and behavioural disorders), and DAN (Defeat Autism Now) doctors.
Causes of autism spectrum disorder
Doctors and scientists around the world are trying to find out the causes of this disease but have not been able to come up with a specific cause. However based on the medical history records of old cases/new cases and the similarities and differences in them, they have come to the following conclusions.
– Chronic infection in the mother’s body that affects the mental development of the child during pregnancy, such as Torch Infection.
– Hormonal imbalance due to the endocrine gland in the mother, thyroid deficiency.
– Pollution in the atmosphere, pollution in drinking water
Genetic disorder
– Tuberculosis disease in family members
– Epilepsy & Seizure Disorder
– Serotonin and neurotransmitter related disease
Many children develop autism after receiving the MMR vaccine, and doctors around the world have differing opinions on the matter. According to the CDC USA (CDC – Centre for Disease Control & Prevention), 1 in 31 children born worldwide are affected by autism, and this figure is considered alarming, as it is more than the combined incidence of cancer, diabetes, and HIV.
Treatment
Both Doctors have 35 Years of experience: Dr Ketan Patel is in Treatment Part And Dr Jayesh Sheth In Genetic Metabolic & Mitochondrial Diagnostic Part
31, Mar 2026
Lifestyle also influences the severity of endometriosis symptoms
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According to a recent review by researchers at Semmelweis University, published in the journal Nutrients, lifestyle and dietary changes may help people living with endometriosis. The study analyzed more than 100 international papers and found that factors such as a healthy diet, regular physical activity, stress management, good sleep and adequate micronutrient intake can help reduce pain and improve quality of life. The Semmelweis University research team reviewed international studies to better understand the role of lifestyle factors in managing endometriosis. Endometriosis is a chronic, estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease affecting around 10% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by tissue similar to the uterine lining growing outside the uterus. These lesions respond to the menstrual cycle and can cause pain, inflammation and bleeding, often leading to severe menstrual pain, chronic pelvic symptoms, fatigue and infertility. Diagnosis is often delayed, and symptoms can significantly affect quality of life over time. One of the key findings is that regular physical activity – at least 150 minutes per week, according to general recommendations, three times a week – can have several benefits. Exercise can influence hormone balance and the way the body processes pain. Clinical studies show that activities such as yoga, stretching and strengthening exercises, cardio workouts and resistance training, as well as relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce endometriosis-related pain and improve quality of life. “Physical activity and other lifestyle factors do not replace medical treatment, but they can support it,” said Dóra Boroncsok, PhD candidate at Semmelweis University and first author of the study. The researchers also highlight the benefits of a Mediterranean-style diet, which is high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and olive oil, while limiting red and processed meat. This type of diet has been linked to reduced pain and improvements in some digestive symptoms. By contrast, pro-inflammatory diets, particularly those high in red meat, may increase the risk of the disease. The review also looks at the possible role of several micronutrients and dietary supplements – including vitamins C, D and E, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc and certain antioxidant compounds – while noting that further clinical research is needed to confirm their benefits. “A key message is that patients can actively contribute to improving their condition. Everyday choices – from physical activity to diet and stress management – can reduce symptoms. Lifestyle change is not a cure, but it offers a real opportunity for women to take an active role in their own health,” added Dr Gábor Sobel, associate professor at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Semmelweis University and senior author of the study. The publication also introduces a new dietary approach currently under investigation, known as the fasting-mimicking diet (FMD). This is a short, typically five-day, plant-based, low-calorie program designed to trigger effects similar to fasting without requiring complete food restriction. In clinical studies of other chronic inflammatory and metabolic conditions – such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk – FMD has been shown to reduce inflammation, support hormonal and metabolic balance, and activate cellular repair processes. Based on its biological effects, FMD appears promising, but it has not yet been studied in gynecological diseases. The Semmelweis University research team has therefore developed a clinical trial protocol, which will be the first study worldwide to investigate FMD in gynecological conditions, including endometriosis. |
31, Mar 2026
Harnessing AI to Revolutionize Organ Transplants in India
Bhubaneswar, March 31: Emphasizing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, Subhasish Panda, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted how AI could significantly enhance organ transplantation in India. Speaking at a workshop-cum-regional Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on “Organ Transplantation and Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare,” he said AI can integrate large datasets to support smarter, faster, and more informed clinical decisions.
“AI has the ability to revolutionize the organ transplantation ecosystem,” Panda noted. “It can streamline donor-recipient matching using genetic, clinical, and laboratory data, track organ availability in real time, optimize transport logistics for timely delivery, and assist clinicians through predictive analytics and intelligent dashboards.”
India currently ranks third globally in organ transplantation, with approximately 20,000 procedures performed in the past year. However, Panda expressed concern that 82 percent of donations come from living donors, with women representing the majority. He also highlighted that most transplants are conducted in the private sector, which affects affordability, and stressed the need for greater public awareness and increased participation from government healthcare institutions.
The programme was organized by AIIMS-Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS). It brought together more than 300 doctors from Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand to discuss innovations in transplantation and the role of AI in improving patient outcomes.
Panda’s remarks underscored the importance of combining technology, awareness, and policy support to make organ transplantation more efficient, accessible, and equitable across India.
31, Mar 2026
Odisha Governor Urges Stronger Awareness and Early Detection to Fight Cancer
On Monday, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati urged everyone to come together to fight the rising number of cancer cases in the state. Speaking at the “Cancer-Free Odisha” Awareness Conclave and the Mahanayak–2026 Awards, he said cancer is not just a medical problem—it affects families and communities across Odisha.
The Governor pointed out that lifestyle changes, tobacco use, environmental factors, and late diagnosis are contributing to the steady rise in cancer cases. He stressed that prevention is better than cure. By spreading awareness about healthy diets, physical activity, and avoiding tobacco, many cancer cases could be prevented.
He also emphasized the importance of early detection. Strong primary healthcare and wider screening, especially in rural areas, can help identify cancer early, improve survival rates, and reduce the emotional and financial burden on families.
Governor Kambhampati called for collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society to ensure cancer care reaches every corner of the state. He also congratulated the Mahanayak–2026 awardees for their contributions and encouraged continued efforts to create a cancer-aware Odisha.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Korei MLA Akash Dasnayak and former Balasore MP Rabindra Kumar Jena, while the welcome address was delivered by Asim Odisha Foundation Trust Chairperson Asima Das.
The conclave made it clear that tackling cancer in Odisha will require awareness, early detection, and the support of the entire community.
30, Mar 2026
India Pharma 2026 Highlights Move from Volume to Innovation Led Growth
New Delhi: The upcoming India Pharma 2026 is set to spotlight India’s transition from volume-driven production to an innovation-led growth model in the pharmaceutical sector.
Industry leaders and policymakers are expected to use the platform to highlight the need for stronger research and development, advanced manufacturing, and greater global competitiveness. The focus is shifting from producing large quantities of generic medicines to developing high-value drugs, novel therapies, and cutting-edge technologies.
Experts believe this transition is crucial for India to strengthen its position in the global pharmaceutical landscape. While the country has long been known as a major supplier of affordable medicines, the next phase of growth will depend on investments in innovation, quality, and intellectual property.
The event will also provide an opportunity to discuss regulatory reforms, collaborations between industry and academia, and strategies to boost exports. Participants are likely to explore how emerging technologies and digital solutions can further enhance efficiency and innovation in the sector.
With growing global demand for advanced healthcare solutions, India Pharma 2026 is expected to serve as a key platform to shape the future direction of India’s pharmaceutical industry.
30, Mar 2026
CCRAS Partners with AI Platform to Expand Ayurveda Research Across Languages
New Delhi: The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has joined hands with Anuvadini AI to make Ayurveda research more accessible to people across India by translating it into 13 languages.
The initiative aims to bridge language barriers that often limit access to traditional knowledge, especially in a country as linguistically diverse as India. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the collaboration will enable wider dissemination of research findings, educational materials, and scientific literature related to Ayurveda.
Officials said the move is expected to benefit students, researchers, and practitioners by allowing them to access authentic information in their native languages. It will also help bring traditional Indian medical knowledge closer to local communities, encouraging greater awareness and understanding.
The partnership reflects a growing effort to combine technology with traditional systems of medicine, making them more inclusive and easier to engage with. By expanding the reach of Ayurveda research, CCRAS hopes to promote its relevance not just within India but also on a global stage.
30, Mar 2026
Screen time among children and adolescents has increased over three decades – especially after COVID-19 pandemic
| First systematic review to track long-term trends across pre- and post-pandemic periods finds dramatic rise in screen use among children and adolescents. |
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Screen time among children and adolescents has increased significantly over the past three decades, with clear rise occurring after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new systematic review conducted at the University of Turku, Finland. The review analysed 60 peer-reviewed studies published between 1991 and 2022 and is the first to comprehensively examine long-term trends in screen time use among individuals aged 0–19 years across both pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Postdoctoral Researcher Yuko Mori from the Research Centre for Child Psychiatry at the University of Turku, Finland, the shared lead author, tells that the nature of screen use has changed dramatically, shifting from traditional television to more interactive and personalised digital devices, such as mobile phones and video games. Earlier studies focused mainly on TV viewing, but from the mid-2010s onward, research began to include newer devices, such as smartphones and tablets. “Interestingly, even during the pandemic, television viewing continued to decline,” says Mori. School closures during the pandemic intensified screen dependence Before the COVID-19 pandemic, research showed a mixed picture, as most studies indicated an increasing trend while others showed mixed results. The majority of studies conducted after the pandemic showed a dramatic increase in both total and leisure screen time among children and adolescents. Across age groups, older children and adolescents generally reported higher screen time than younger children. “This likely reflects developmental factors,” says shared lead author Sanju Silwal, Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Turku. “Adolescence is a life stage where peer relationships, online social interaction, and romantic relationships become increasingly central.” The increase in screen time was observed across socioeconomic groups, but it was more pronounced among children from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. The authors suggest this may reflect greater access to personal digital devices. Guidance needed for healthy screen use The sustained rise in screen exposure raises concerns regarding potential impacts on physical health, mental well-being, sleep, and development. Beyond time spent on digital devices, digital environments may expose young people to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and unrealistic body ideals. Several countries have introduced regulatory measures in response to growing concerns about youth digital media use. The authors emphasise that effective responses must be grounded in high-quality evidence. Most research has focused on the duration of screen use rather than the quality, context, or content of digital activities. The authors call for future research to adopt a more nuanced and multidimensional approach, examining not only how much time children spend on screens but also what they are doing online and how it affects their well-being. “Technology offers tremendous opportunities, but it also presents risks,” Silwal notes. “To ensure that children benefit from digital environments, we need continuous research, evidence-based policies, and coordinated efforts from families, schools, communities, and governments.” This systematic review was funded by the INVEST Flagship programme of the Research Council of Finland and the European Research Council under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. The review titled “Long-term trends in screen time use among children and adolescents: A systematic review including pre- and post-COVID periods” was published in the journal Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry on March 2026: https://doi.org/10.1177/ |
28, Mar 2026
Roswell Park First in Region to Offer New Treatment for Tumors
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has become the first care provider in the region to offer adaptive radiation therapy, marking a significant advancement in personalized cancer treatment.
This innovative approach leverages artificial intelligence and state-of-the-art technology to deliver highly precise radiation therapy. By using a linear accelerator integrated with real-time imaging, clinicians can assess the tumor’s size, shape, and position during each session, allowing for immediate adjustments to treatment plans.
Unlike traditional radiation therapy, where treatment follows a fixed plan despite changes in a patient’s anatomy, adaptive radiation therapy accounts for daily variations caused by factors such as digestion or tumor shrinkage. This ensures more accurate targeting of cancer cells while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
“This tool gives us the ability to modify treatment plans on the spot, accommodating daily changes in a patient’s anatomy,” said Mark Farrugia, highlighting the program’s role in enhancing treatment precision and patient outcomes.
The new therapy enables oncologists to deliver higher radiation doses directly to tumors while reducing side effects, improving both safety and effectiveness. Patients with cancers in areas prone to movement or change stand to benefit the most from this advancement.
One patient, Bill Doughtery, shared how the treatment helped protect his remaining kidney while effectively targeting cancerous areas, describing the approach as life-changing.
The introduction of adaptive radiation therapy has been supported in part by contributions to the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, which funds research, education, and patient care initiatives.
With this launch, Roswell Park reinforces its commitment to advancing cancer care through innovation, aiming to deliver better outcomes with fewer side effects for patients across the region.
28, Mar 2026
Two UT MD Anderson Researchers Elected AAAS Fellows
Houston, Mar 28: In recognition of their significant achievements to advance cancer care and research, Theresa Guise, M.D., and Stephanie S. Watowich, Ph.D., from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, have been elected fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
This honor ranks among the highest distinctions in the scientific research community. Since 1874, AAAS has recognized leading scientists who are elected by their peers for outstanding contributions to science and society. The current class includes nearly 500 fellows who are honored for their exceptional achievements in research, innovation and public engagement. With the addition of Guise and Watowich, 72 UT MD Anderson faculty members have been elected as AAAS Fellows.
“We are incredibly proud to see Dr. Guise and Dr. Watowich recognized among leaders in the scientific community,” said Peter WT Pisters, M.D., president of UT MD Anderson. “Their unwavering dedication to advancing scientific breakthroughs and their remarkable contributions to cancer research make them truly deserving of this prestigious honor.”
UT MD Anderson’s research environment fosters continuous collaboration between clinicians and scientists, allowing ideas and discoveries to flow readily between the laboratory and the clinic. Findings from laboratory research can quickly be translated into new treatments for clinical testing, while insights from patient care help guide ongoing experiments in the lab. This continuous exchange is built on collaboration, strong connectivity and data-driven science, creating a powerful cycle of innovation that accelerates discovery.
Guise is professor of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, the Abell‑Hanger Foundation Distinguished Professor, and chief of the section of Bone and Mineral Disorders at UT MD Anderson. She is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking work uncovering how cancer and cancer treatments affect bone, muscle and metabolism. Her research has defined key molecular drivers of cancer‑induced bone destruction and revealed how bone‑derived signals contribute to muscle weakness, metabolic dysfunction and treatment‑related toxicities, shaping new therapeutic strategies across multiple cancer types. A Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) Scholar and leader in national and international scientific societies, Guises has published more than 200 studies and trained over 50 researchers, making her a transformative force in advancing the understanding of skeletal complications in cancer.
Watowich is professor and deputy chair of Immunology and holds the Vivian L. Smith Distinguished Chair in Immunology at UT MD Anderson. She is a leading scientist whose work has helped reveal how the immune system detects cancer and responds to modern immunotherapies.
Her research has uncovered how key immune cells develop and function, and how these cells can be guided to better fight tumors and limit harmful side effects from treatment. Her team’s discoveries have helped advance a promising new type of dendritic cell therapy and improved understanding of why some patients respond well to immunotherapy while others do not. This work is shaping new strategies to make immunotherapy more effective and safer for a wider range of patients.
A dedicated mentor and leader of several innovative training programs, Watowich has earned numerous awards and honors throughout her career and continues to guide the next generation of cancer researchers.
“The election of Dr. Guise and Dr. Watowich as AAAS Fellows recognizes the remarkable contributions they have made to scientific progress,” said Albert Koong, M.D., Ph.D., senior vice president and chief scientific officer at UT MD Anderson. “Their work exemplifies our spirit of innovation and reflects our institution’s commitment to advancing discoveries that translate into meaningful improvements in patient care.”
