Message from Chairperson

Dear Members of the PHO Chapter and Colleagues

The PHO chapter was conceived in 1987 with the aim of encouraging pediatricians in this subspecialty and advancement of the knowledge and practice of Hematology Oncology in India. We have come a long way since, which is evident from the number of centers with Pediatric Hematology Oncology units and the advent of DNB and DM training programs in the subject; a large feather in our hat. Efforts over the last few years have culminated in the formation of our research unit which is now registered formally as INPHOG (Indian National Hematology Oncology group) which will enable us to do collaborative research in our area. The chapter already has a journal (Pediatric Hematology Oncology journal) which was started in 2016 and is currently in the process of being indexed.

The last two decades have witnessed the entry of a number of non- governmental organizations dedicated to pediatric hematology oncology, which have assisted in providing holistic care by providing help to patients for treatment, housing, nutrition and travel as well as facilitating hospitals with supportive care staffing, always an issue in our country. In addition, the aid being received to treat children with cancer from the Government of India through various schemes has increased exponentially and is a giant step towards the WHO / GICC (Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer) goal to give all children with cancer the best chance to survive, to live full and abundant lives and to live and die without suffering.

A large number of children in India with cancer and hematological disorders still remain untreated for want of sufficient units and good access to care. We would like to work towards increasing awareness and care in the distant towns and peripheries by working on developing a system of ‘shared care’. We look forward to constructing a model to work and coordinate with the state governments to improve awareness and treatment for our children. Thalassemia is a global public health concern and we aim to collectively plan on preventing and appropriate management of the disease. We also propose to coordinate the efforts of WHO/GICC towards better survival for children with cancer.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." – Helen Keller

Prof. Amita Trehan

Chairperson, Pediatric Hematology Oncology Chapter,
Pediatric Hematology Oncology Unit, Advanced Pediatric Center
Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India