94.5% kids survive after cancer treatment: Study
Times of India
by ANUJA JAISWALFebruary 14, 2026
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NEW DELHI: A groundbreaking study reveals that 94.5% of children in India survive cancer treatment, with an impressive 98.2% surviving two years post-treatment. Conducted across 20 major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, this is the first large-scale national program to track childhood cancer survivors. The research highlights encouraging outcomes, showing that nearly all children who complete treatment remain in remission, with leukaemia being the most common diagnosis.
The study, published in *The Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia*, involved over 5,400 children treated between 2016 and 2024. Lead author Dr Rachna Seth of AIIMS emphasized that while survival rates are high, long-term challenges like fertility issues, cognitive decline, and secondary cancers must be addressed. Nearly all participants received chemotherapy, with many undergoing radiation, surgery, or blood transfusions.
This study marks a significant shift in focus from immediate survival to the quality of life for childhood cancer survivors. Previously, India lacked localized data, relying on Western studies that may not reflect local treatment practices. The findings underscore the need for tailored survivorship programs to address unique medical and psych
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026