Current Status and Challenges in Pediatric Radiation Therapy in China: A Nationwide Survey.

PURPOSE: This study aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the current state of pediatric radiation therapy (RT) in China, identifying key challenges in infrastructure, workforce, and access to advanced technologies while exploring opportunities for improving care delivery.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: A 29-item online questionnaire was distributed to radiation oncologists and clinical teams across China, with 123 responses from 103 hospitals. The survey explored six domains: hospital characteristics, radiotherapy equipment and techniques, pediatric oncology staffing, patient admission and treatment status, treatment and follow-up, and social work support and charitable partnerships.

RESULTS

Among the 103 hospitals, 66.0% provide pediatric RT, but only 7.4% have dedicated pediatric RT departments, and 57% lack a pediatric radiation oncologist. Advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volume intensity-modulated radiotherapy (VMAT) are widely used (95.1%), but only 11.7% of hospitals offer proton therapy, and just 8.7% have pediatric-specific radiotherapy treatment room. Anesthesia resources are inadequate, with only 27.2% of hospitals equipped for sedation. Furthermore, 78% of hospitals have not participated in clinical research, and only 33% adhere to standardized treatment protocols. Social work support and charitable partnerships are present in just 44% of facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant gaps in pediatric RT services, including shortages in workforce, advanced technologies, and holistic support systems, hinder equitable care. Addressing these deficiencies through workforce development, increased access to advanced RT modalities, and enhanced support systems is essential to improving outcomes for pediatric cancer patients in China.