IHHN and PSPO Host First-Ever National Symposium on Psychosocial Care in Pediatric Oncology

The Pakistan Society of Pediatric Oncology (PSPO), in collaboration with Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN), organized the first national symposium on psychosocial care in pediatric oncology on May 23, 2025, in Karachi. Titled “Psychosocial Care – The Missing Link in Pediatric Oncology in Pakistan,” the landmark event brought together healthcare professionals, global experts, survivors, caregivers, and patient advocates to spotlight the critical—yet often overlooked—emotional and social aspects of childhood cancer care.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in interdisciplinary discussions on child life services, clinical psychology, social work, bereavement support, school reintegration, and survivorship. The symposium featured both international and national speakers who offered practical strategies for incorporating psychosocial care into the clinical journey of pediatric patients. Families and survivors also shared their deeply personal experiences, shedding light on the emotional challenges faced during and after treatment.

A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion that explored sustainable solutions for integrating psychosocial support across oncology services in Pakistan. The panel emphasized the need to adapt global psychosocial care standards to local contexts, involve patients and caregivers in service development, and create a national psychosocial task force. It also proposed establishing a dedicated Psychosocial Working Group under PSPO to ensure continued progress and engagement at the policy level.

This symposium marked a significant step forward in redefining pediatric cancer care in Pakistan. By acknowledging and addressing the emotional needs of children and their families, IHHN and PSPO are paving the way for a more compassionate and comprehensive approach to treatment—one that heals not just the body, but the whole child.