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Almost 80% of Cuban children with
leukemia treated successfully
Almost 80% of children with leukemia in Cuba have
been cured of this type of cancer, the most frequent
among children worldwide, according to Dr. Sergio
Machín, Hematology specialist and clinical
pediatrician at the country’s Hematology and
Immunology Institute (IHI), who explained that this
accomplishment is on a par with results in developed
nations.
He
clarified that acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is
the most common malignant disease in this age group
and was the first to be treated. Cuba is currently
following a new comprehensive treatment regimen with
these young patients, in conjunction with 14 other
countries. Among those participating in the
international research project are Argentina, Chile
and Uruguay, in Latin America, and others
predominately in Europe.
There have been several treatment strategies
developed since the 1970’s, with new resources added
over the years. Implementation of the protocol used
currently in Cuba began in 2009, and has led to this
promising level of success, the doctor explained.
Treatment is offered in seven Cuban institutions -
two in Havana, along with others in Pinar del Río,
Villa Clara, Camagüey, Holguín and Santiago de
Cuba.
There are approximately 70 new cases of leukemia
diagnosed every year in Cuba, 75% are lymphoblastic,
and can often be cured, allowing children to lead
normal, productive lives, Dr. Sergio Machín said. (AIN)
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