Foundation warns about failures in delivery of medications for children with cancer
The president of the Colombian Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation, Yolima Méndez, warned about the serious consequences faced by children with cancer in Colombia due to delays and barriers in accessing essential treatments.
TL;DR
- Children with cancer in Colombia are facing significant delays and barriers in accessing essential treatments.
- A survey indicated that 39% of parents reported their children had difficulties accessing medications.
- Key drugs for acute leukemias, such as methotrexate and mercaptopurine, are among those with supply issues.
- Families are resorting to legal actions (tutelas) to ensure treatment continuity.
- The Colombian Leukemia and Lymphoma Foundation and the Interinstitutional Observatory of Childhood Cancer are urging the Ministry of Health and Invima to prioritize 56 pediatric medications.
- These medications have a record in the country but lack specific authorization for pediatric use, creating dispensing obstacles.
- Legal actions, while often successful, add a burden to families already dealing with the emotional and economic impact of cancer.