DISP-03. Facilitating financial access for pediatric neuro-oncology patients: Lessons from a cancer charity

Abstract BACKGROUND Childhood cancer survival rates in sub-Saharan Africa remain low due to high treatment costs, inadequate pediatric oncology infrastructure, sociocultural barriers, and low awareness. Faraja Cancer Support Trust, a cancer charity provides financial assistance to indigent patients requiring chemotherapy and or radiotherapy through a dedicated childhood cancer fund. This study aims at examining the financial burden of treatment for pediatric neuro-oncology patients seeking financial support from a cancer charity. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective desk review cost analysis of treatment and financial data of neuro-oncology pediatric patients who applied for financial support from a cancer charity over a 12 month period. RESULTS Thirteen pediatric neuro-oncology patients applied for financial support during the study period. 61% had brain tumors of which 50% were Medulloblastoma. The age range was 3–18 years, mean: 10.6 years. All patients received radiotherapy and or chemotherapy. 87% underwent neurosurgical intervention. The total cost of treatment for these patients was USD 56,000 (KES 7,274,175). The Social Health Insurance Fund covered 43% (approximately USD 24,135), leaving a significant financial gap. Patients fundraised or borrowed money to cover part of the cost and the cancer charity supported the remaining costs. At 12 month follow up 92% of the patients who were supported by the cancer charity had completed their treatment and were doing well. CONCLUSIONS The cost of treating childhood cancer remains prohibitive even with social health insurance. Patients and families are forced to incur substantial out-of-pocket expenses or seek help from cancer charities. Financial barriers contribute to treatment abandonment, asserting the important role of cancer charities like Faraja Cancer Support Trust and civil society organizations in enabling access to care. These findings align with global studies on the financial challenges of pediatric oncology treatment in low-resource settings.