Childhood Cancer Month in Serbia: 339 diagnosed, 52 lost in 2024

Statistically, one child is diagnosed every day. The news is devastating for many Serbian parents, like the Kapata family. Fifteen-year-old Ognjen Kapata learned he had leukaemia, sending his family into a battle they never expected.

"You can’t prepare for it. One day he had a sore throat, and the next, we were told it was leukaemia," said Radmila Kapata, Ognjen’s mother.

Experts identify leukaemia, brain tumours, and lymphomas as the leading pediatric cancers. Despite a five-year survival rate exceeding 60%, the National Association of Parents of Children with Cancer (NURDOR) says it’s not enough. They plan to upgrade two critical pediatric oncology departments – one in Vojvodina and another at the Children's Hospital in Belgrade.

"This year, NURDOR is launching the 'Child-Friendly Hospital' campaign to ensure equal treatment for all children in Serbia's hospitals," said Marija Laketic Ljevar from NURDOR.

For children like 14-year-old Dusan Zlatanovic, diagnosed with thyroid cancer, treatment conditions vary significantly between hospitals. "In one hospital, windows couldn’t be opened, which made the environment even more difficult," he explained.

Despite the challenges, the support from family and a strong spirit remain crucial. Radmila Kapata reflected on her son's resilience: "He said, 'Okay, Mom, let's beat this so I can get back to my life'."

Childhood cancer doesn’t discriminate, but we can choose to offer support. Children like Ognjen and Dusan should be more than statistics, underscoring the importance of regular screenings for early detection and better outcomes.