MAHAK Press Conference to Mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2024

In recognition of September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, MAHAK organized a press conference to raise community awareness about pediatric cancer. During this event, MAHAK highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, which can lead to less painful, less costly, and more effective treatment for children dealing with cancer.

In this regard, MAHAK set up a press conference alongside three charities, whose MAHAK had empowered them through last years. This press conference directed to answer community questions regarding MAHAK performance, spotlight ongoing challenges, and discuss initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children fighting cancer.

During the conference, Dr. Arasb Ahmadian, MAHAK CEO, elaborated on the urge upon a national communication network to better providing care for children all over the country. Recognizing this compulsion, MAHAK began developing this network years ago by supporting other national childhood cancer charities such as KASSA, Taskin, and Khorasan Charity. Up to now, they have registered a total of more than 6000 pediatric cases together.

He noted that MAHAK Hospital operates with 100 beds, accounting for 20% of the country’s pediatric cancer treatment capacity. The remaining 80% receive the curing and supportive services by other 40 public university hospitals, where MAHAK covers treatment costs.” Up to now, MAHAK has assisted over 45,000 children, with an average of six new cases reported daily that closely reflect global incidence rates. Dr. Ahmadian confirmed that MAHAK extends its support to non-Iranian children, provided they have basic health insurance and are treated in public hospitals.

The conference also delved into the challenges faced in treating childhood cancer.  One of these challenges is the high costs of medications, especially single-prescription drugs. Single-prescription drugs are the items that are not listed in the national pharmacopoeia, and they are also not covered by the insurance. However, despite shortages and rising costs, MAHAK has managed to provide all necessary medications for its children so far.

Moving on from ongoing challenges, the good news is that MAHAK has procured two novel highly advanced instruments at Radiation-oncology Department as well as successfully installing 300 digital kiosks in public places to facilitate donations.

MAHAK press conference ended with giving the attendees badges of childhood cancer awareness month and took their photos with the SIOP-CCI #gogold framework by MAHAK International Department.