Back Today, on October 2nd, during the 125th-anniversary conference of the Children’s Clinical University Hospital (BKUS), the Swiss-Latvian cooperation program “Advancement of Paediatric Cancer Care in Latvia” was officially launched. With an investment of approximately nine million euros, the goal over the next five years is to improve the treatment outcomes and quality of life for children with cancer by implementing a patient-centered and multidisciplinary approach throughout the entire care process.
The treatment of oncological patients is one of the public health priorities in Latvia. Each year, 50 to 60 children and adolescents are diagnosed with malignant tumors for the first time, and, on average, 10 children and adolescents die annually due to cancer. Over the past five years, these figures have ranged from 3 to 11 deaths per year.
The Ministry of Health is currently working on the 2025–2027 Cancer Care Improvement Plan, where particular attention is given to paediatric and adolescent oncology, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnostics, the need for personalized treatment, and adherence to international guidelines. The Swiss-Latvian cooperation program, to be implemented by BKUS in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, is one of the tools to bring about effective improvements in paediatric oncology.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a healthy environment and live a fulfilling life. Unfortunately, cancer is one of the most severe challenges our children face, causing physical and emotional suffering and threatening their lives. We are committed to ensuring that every child in Latvia has a chance to win this battle. Our duty is to provide the best possible care – from prevention and diagnostics to recovery support. The Children’s Clinical University Hospital is doing remarkable work caring for our young patients, and with additional investments in paediatric oncology, we will be able to raise the standard of care even higher. I am grateful and excited about the collaboration with Switzerland’s leading hospitals and professionals. This program will significantly contribute to the long-term development of our healthcare system and improve treatment outcomes for both children and the future of public health,” emphasized the Minister of Health, Hosams Abu Meri.
The funding for the “Advancement of Paediatric Cancer Care in Latvia” program amounts to 8.8 million Swiss francs, approximately 9.3 million euros (7.9 million from Switzerland and 1.4 million euros from the Latvian state budget). The program will create a long-term support and monitoring system based on evidence, which will help measure, monitor, and improve treatment outcomes. Clinical research teams will be established, and Latvia will participate in international paediatric oncology treatment protocols and studies. The project will enhance the work of multidisciplinary teams and tumor boards and strengthen the capacity of healthcare professionals through training and knowledge exchange with international hospitals. Collaboration with Switzerland’s leading hospitals will help improve the diagnostic capabilities and quality of care for paediatric oncology and rare diseases. The project will also involve the digitization of the pathology laboratory, the establishment of a hospital biobank, and the creation of a genomic database, alongside improvements in patient experience.
Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation Martin Michelet: “This unique program will further strengthen bilateral relations between Switzerland and Latvia through collaboration between Swiss and Latvian hospitals. This program reflects our shared goal of the 2nd Swiss Contribution in supporting the reduction of the economic and social disparities within the EU and the Partner States. Children are the most vulnerable part of society, and we are proud that this initiative will help improve their quality of life and future opportunities”.
Chairman of the Board of the Children’s Clinical University Hospital, Valts Ābols, added: “As the only children’s hospital in Latvia, we see firsthand how important it is to ensure effective and accessible care for children with oncological diseases. This cooperation program will provide practical solutions – children will receive faster and more accurate diagnostics, personalized treatment, and long-term support after recovery. This will significantly improve the experience of children and their families – they will feel more secure and receive continuous support throughout the treatment process and beyond. This is not just a strategy or a plan, but real changes that will directly benefit children and their families”.
It was previously reported that the Children’s Clinical University Hospital celebrates its 125th anniversary on October 2nd by hosting a conference where specialists share their knowledge and experience in the field of children’s healthcare.
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