OBJECTIVES
To determine the incidence, prevalence and demographics of paediatric malignancies during a one year period at a public hospital in St. Lucia.
To evaluate the deficiencies in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, while managing paediatric malignancies in St. Lucia.
METHODS
Data was collected from the ward registry for all paediatric oncology subjects admitted to the paediatric department, during the period January 01, 2024 to December 31, 2024. The data was then analysed using percentages and median calculations.
RESULTS
Of the total 690 paediatric admissions during the period, 9 (1.3%) were cases of malignancies. For the cases of childhood cancers, 5 (55.5%) were newly confirmed subjects during the period, with a female predominance of 6 (66.7%), and median age of 6 years. The most common type was Leukaemia 4 (44.4%), followed by brain tumours 2 (2.2%). Six (66.7%) subjects were transferred to Martinique for chemotherapy, while 3 (3.33%) palliative subjects died in St. Lucia. One (1.1%) of the 6 transferred subjects, died in France.
CONCLUSION
Childhood cancers in St. Lucia were more prevalent in early school age children, mainly in females, with Leukaemia being the most common malignancy. Mortality was impacted by late presentations; and limited diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Public education, as well as an improved health care system, can reduce the associated mortality. Parental grief and mental health should also be considered when decisions are being made for palliative cases. Inter-island collaboration allows for initial treatment overseas, and maintenance phase treatment on island.
