Mexico

This programme is supported by World Child Cancer USA and was first initiated following an identification of the need to develop a paediatric oncology programme in the region.

Programme Centres

Hospital del Nino DIF, Pachuca, Hidalgo

Hospital de la Ninez Oaxaquena, Oaxaca

Hospital Regional Rio Blanco, Veracruz

Twinning Centre

Children's Mercy Hospital Kansas City, USA

Programme Leads

Dr Yannis Cortes & Dr Nalyn Lizeth Rodriguez Brindis

Regional Director: Dr Arturo Moreno Ramirez

Twinning Lead

Dr Tristan Flatt

Contact

Dr Lilia Garcia

Programme Coordinator

Start Date

November 2015

Background
Problems
Key Activities

World Child Cancer USA is supporting three hospitals in Mexico following an initial needs assessment visit in 2015. Around 800 childhood cancer cases are expected in the southeast region of Mexico. Many of these children do not have access to diagnosis or treatment due to distance to hospital and lack of awareness of the symptoms and curability of childhood cancer.

Low literacy rates within indigenous communities which results in difficulties in advancing knowledge of cancer
Poor data collection facilities and difficulties in tracking patients
Little training available for healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating childhood cancer
Cost of treatment is only partially funded and result in a huge financial burden on families

No child should suffer
- Training and mentoring of local healthcare professionals
- A container of essential medical equipment provided to Hospital Regional Rio Blanco in Veracruz
No-one left undiagnosed
- Awareness-raising videos produced in indigenous languages to reach families in marginalised communities
Helping families
- Supporting families with the cost of essential medicines
- Providing parents and caregivers with craft materials for income-generating activities

Facts and Stats

51%

Children in Mexico diagnosed with cancer received no medical care prior to 2005
170

children with cancer are diagnosed at the Oaxaca and Pachuca sites each year
40%

Of patients are indigenous and do not speak Spanish