Pediatric Hematology Oncology Takes Center Stage at 8th International PSPOCon 2026

The Department of Pediatric Hematology Oncology actively participated in the 8th International Pakistan Society of Pediatric Oncology (PSPO) Conference, held in Lahore on 6–7 February 2026, demonstrating outstanding academic and research excellence. It was an incredible opportunity for IHHNs young researchers to engage with pediatric oncology leaders from around the world, learn from their experiences, and share the departments local achievements and innovations in patient care and research.

A major highlight of the conference was the dissemination of findings from the PSPO National Protocol on Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), presented by Dr Naeem Jabbar, Consultant Pediatric Hematology Oncology, IHHN, and Study Principal Investigator. Notably, 62% of the participants enrolled in this national protocol were from Indus Hospital & Health Network, reflecting the institution’s significant contribution to national pediatric oncology research. His presentation offered important insights into national-level data of ALL, treatment outcomes, and evolving clinical practices. Further strengthening the scientific program, protocol updates were delivered by leading Researchers & Pediatric Oncology Consultants, including Dr Shamvil Ashraf, Principal Investigator for the National Protocol on Wilms’ Tumor, and Dr Muhammad Raza Rafie, Principal Investigator for the National Protocol on Hodgkin. These sessions brought to light continuous initiative to improve and standardize pediatric oncology care across Pakistan using locally generated evidence. Research Presentations and Abstract Acceptances In addition to invited speakers and protocol updates, the department demonstrated strong scholarly engagement, with seven abstracts accepted for presentation in oral and poster sessions at the conference. All presenters were awarded travel grants by PSPO, in recognition of the quality, relevance, and impact of their research contributions. Furthermore, the 1st Prize for Best Oral Presentation was awarded to Dr Naeem Jabbar for his presentation titled “Infectious Mortality in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in Pakistan,” presented on behalf of the PSPO National Protocol ALL team.

Oral Presentations

1. Reducing Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates in Pediatric Oncology in a Low-Income Country: A Post-Profile Quality Improvement Initiative Presented by Dr Reema, Senior Research Associate

2. Impact of a Shared Care Network in Pediatric Oncology: A Multicenter Experience from Pakistan Presented by Dr Hebah Mushtaque, Program Manager, MCM Pediatric Hematology Oncology – (Awarded 2nd Prize for Best Oral Presentation)

3. Easing Orientation and Reducing Waiting Times for Pediatric Oncology Patients in a Daycare Setting Presented by Bashir Ahmed, Nurse Educator, MCM Pediatric Hematology Oncology

4. Optimizing Follow-Up Care via Telemedicine: A Model from a High-Volume Pediatric Oncology Center in Pakistan Presented by Zoreen Shafaq, Research Associate, MCM Pediatric Hematology Oncology

Poster Presentations

1. Clinical Presentation and Treatment Outcomes of Pediatric Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: A Study from a Developing Country Presented by Dr Naila Rafiq

2. Addressing Treatment Abandonment in Pediatric Oncology: The Role of Missed Appointment Call-Back Systems in a Pakistani Setting Presented by Dr Sadia Muhammad

3. Implementing the MUCO-MAP Bundle: A Quality Improvement Initiative for Mucositis Management in Pediatric Oncology at Indus Hospital, Karachi Presented by Dr Hebah Mushtaque

4. Clinical Presentation and Survival Outcomes of Pediatric Orbital Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Single-Center Experience from Pakistan Presented by Dr Neelum Tahir Kheli

These achievements and active engagement reflect the department’s strong research culture and its continued commitment to advancing Childhood Cancer Care and improving its outcomes in Pakistan.