A cancer diagnosis is difficult at any age but when it happens to a child, it’s especially heartbreaking. In such cases, families face overwhelming questions: What does this mean for my child’s future? Who can help us? What type of doctor do we need?
The answer often starts with a pediatric oncologist.
In this article, we’ll explain who pediatric oncologists are, what they do, how they differ from adult cancer specialists, and how to find the right one in Nepal or anywhere else.
Who Is a Pediatric Oncologist?
A pediatric oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer in children, adolescents, and young adults .Typically from birth up to age 18–21. These specialists are trained not just in cancer medicine, but also in understanding the physical, emotional, and developmental needs of younger patients.
They are experts in treating childhood cancers such as:
- Leukemia (blood cancer)
- Lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes)
- Brain and spinal cord tumors
- Bone and soft tissue sarcomas
- Neuroblastoma
- Wilms tumor
- Retinoblastoma
Pediatric oncologists often lead a multidisciplinary care team that includes pediatric surgeons, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and physiotherapists—all working together to provide holistic care.
What Makes Pediatric Oncology Different?
Cancer in children behaves differently than in adults. For example:
Children often respond better to treatment and have higher cure rates. Their bodies handle chemotherapy differently, so doses and drug choices must be tailored carefully. Children require emotional support geared to their age and development.
Pediatric oncologists are trained to strike the delicate balance between effective treatment and preserving long-term health, especially considering side effects that can affect growth, learning, and fertility.
Common Treatments Pediatric Oncologists Provide
Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, but may include:
Chemotherapy – the most common treatment in pediatric cancers
Surgery – to remove tumors
Radiation therapy – used carefully in children due to growth concerns
Bone marrow or stem cell transplant
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy – for certain types of advanced or relapsed cancers
Pediatric oncologists also manage infections, nutrition, pain, and the emotional stress of the child and family during and after treatment.
The Pediatric Oncologist–Parent Partnership
One of the most important roles a pediatric oncologist plays is communicating with families. They guide parents through:
- Understanding the diagnosis and prognosis
- Making decisions about treatment options
- Preparing for possible side effects
- Supporting the child emotionally during long hospital stays
A good pediatric oncologist doesn’t just treat cancer—they support the entire family through one of the toughest journeys they’ll ever face.
Pediatric Oncology in Nepal: Growing but Limited
While Nepal has made progress in oncology, pediatric oncology remains a developing field. Only a few hospitals have dedicated pediatric oncologists and facilities, such as:
- Kanti Children’s Hospital, Kathmandu
- Bhaktapur Cancer Hospital, Bhaktapur
- BP Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Chitwan
Select private hospitals like Nepal Cancer Hospital and Research Center (NCHRC)
Many families still need to travel to India or abroad for advanced care, especially for bone marrow transplants. However, the number of trained pediatric oncologists in Nepal is slowly growing, along with access to supportive care and chemotherapy for children.
How to Find the Right Pediatric Oncologist?
If your child is diagnosed or suspected to have cancer:
- Ask your pediatrician or general physician for a referral.
- Look for hospitals with a pediatric cancer unit.
- Ask about the doctor’s experience treating your child’s specific cancer type.
Look for hospitals with child-friendly environments—play areas, counseling, and parental lodging facilities.
Trust and communication are key. You’ll be working closely with this doctor for many months, so choose someone who respects your role as a parent and listens to your concerns.
Final Thoughts
A pediatric oncologist is more than a cancer specialist—they are a lifeline for children and families in their most vulnerable moments. Their work combines science, empathy, and long-term vision to ensure not just survival, but quality of life for young patients.
With growing awareness and improvements in healthcare infrastructure, we hope to see more trained pediatric oncologists in Nepal, more survivors, and more smiles returning to the faces of children who bravely fight and beat cancer.