New emotional support tools introduced for pediatric oncology patients

New initiatives have been launched to provide emotional support to children undergoing cancer treatment and their families.

In Peru, Auna has developed Auni, an interactive robot powered by artificial intelligence. Designed for use at the Clínica Delgado Auna, the robot is trained to converse, sing, dance, and tell stories to pediatric patients. Beyond entertainment, Auni is programmed to explain complex medical procedures in simple language and provide encouragement to reduce anxiety before surgeries.

In Chile, the initiative ‘A la quimio con mi simio’ has introduced therapeutic kits at the Hospital Regional de Talca. These kits, which include a stuffed monkey and educational books, are designed to help children understand chemotherapy and its side effects. The program also provides specific kits for siblings of patients to help them process the uncertainty and fear associated with a family member's diagnosis.