IMSS benefits over 6,000 children with cancer thanks to an innovative strategy.

In a notable advancement in the fight against childhood cancer, the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) has managed to benefit 6,685 children in 2024, thanks to the implementation of the National Strategy of the 36 State Reference Centers for the Care of Children with Cancer (OncoCREAN), led by its general director, Zoé Robledo. This initiative aims not only to treat but also to ensure timely and quality care, aligning treatments at the national level and guaranteeing equality in healing possibilities. From 2022 to November 2024, the IMSS has diagnosed and treated 3,838 new cases of childhood cancer, reflecting the institution's commitment to the health and well-being of the most vulnerable. The OncoCREAN strategy establishes itself as a comprehensive model focused on providing personalized treatment tailored to each patient's needs, while recognizing the importance of early intervention in the care process. One of the pillars of this strategy has been the ongoing education of medical personnel. More than 6,187 micro-lessons on the implementation of the Golden Hour strategy have been delivered, and 5,019 training sessions on the use of the Early Warning Assessment Scale (EVAT) have been conducted. These tools are vital for identifying complications at early stages, which in turn allows for a better clinical response and increases the chances of success in treatments. Research has also played a fundamental role in this advancement, with 2,232 studies conducted at the Eastern Biomedical Research Center (CIBIOR). These studies focus on analyzing immunophenotype samples and minimal residual disease, providing data that allows for more precise monitoring of each patient's progression and the adjustment of treatments in a personalized manner. Telemedicine has proven to be a key tool in this fight, allowing specialists to collaborate on 110 clinical cases through 174 virtual sessions. This approach not only facilitates the management of complex cases but also expands access to specialized care in remote areas where resources may be scarce. In a context where diseases such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia require critical interventions, the IMSS has performed 209 transplants in the past two years, reaffirming its commitment to effective treatments and improving the quality of life for its patients. This effort reflects comprehensive care that considers both the medical and emotional aspects of the disease. The OncoCREAN model stands out by concentrating 95% of hospital discharges among children diagnosed with cancer, allowing for better resource management and a more efficient approach to care. Additionally, the development of immunotherapies is underway, aiming to enhance the immune response of children and improve treatment outcomes. The active participation of the patients' parents has been crucial in this process. In working group meetings, strategies have been agreed upon to ensure the supply of medications, as well as the continuous review of the Golden Hour strategy. This collaborative approach ensures that the voices of those going through this difficult experience are heard and considered in decision-making. Isaac Mejía Montes de Oca, head of Digital Services at the IMSS, has highlighted that 19,102 patients have been registered on the oncology treatment platform, of which 35% are pediatric. This figure underscores the need for specialized and accessible care for all children facing cancer in Mexico. With the start of a new year, follow-up meetings to evaluate and strengthen these strategies will resume on January 8, 2025. This commitment reaffirms the IMSS's vision of providing comprehensive and universal care, ensuring that every child with cancer receives the attention they deserve and the opportunity for a better future.