Brazil emphasizes early diagnosis for childhood cancer

Health initiatives in Brazil are emphasizing the critical importance of early diagnosis for childhood cancers. In Goiás, the Complexo Oncológico de Referência do Estado de Goiás (Cora) reports that children and adolescents typically begin treatment within 72 hours of their initial consultation. In some hematological cases, treatment can even start on the same day as the diagnosis. In 2026, Cora confirmed 237 pediatric cancer diagnoses.

In Rio de Janeiro, the ‘De Olho nos Olhinhos’ campaign is raising awareness about retinoblastoma, a malignant retinal tumor that primarily affects children under five. Supported by the National Cancer Institute (Inca), the campaign highlights that early detection can lead to cure rates of up to 90% and may help preserve vision. Key warning signs include a white reflex in the pupil, strabismus, and eye redness.