QEH Highlights Pediatric Cancer Care During Child Month

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) is raising awareness about pediatric cancer care in Barbados following an interview held May 12th, 2026 on CBC TV8’s Mornin’ Barbados programme during Child Month.

Consultant Pediatrician and Hematologist-Oncologist, Dr. Chantelle Browne-Farmer, appeared on the programme to discuss the realities of childhood cancer, treatment options available at the QEH, and the encouraging outcomes being achieved through specialised care in Barbados.

During the interview, Dr. Browne-Farmer explained that while pediatric cancer remains relatively rare, approximately 10 new cases are diagnosed annually in Barbados. She noted that acute leukemia is the most common form of childhood cancer seen globally and locally, with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) being the most common subtype.

Importantly, she stressed that pediatric cancers generally respond more favourably to treatment than many adult cancers.

“Pediatric cancer is actually more receptive to treatment than adult cancer and so generally the outcomes are better,” Dr. Browne-Farmer explained.

She also highlighted the QEH’s longstanding investment in pediatric oncology services, noting that Barbados has benefited from specialist pediatric oncology care for approximately 30 years.

The interview further explored the hospital’s collaboration with the SickKids Caribbean Initiative and international medical partners, which has expanded regional expertise, enhanced access to advanced diagnostics, strengthened nursing capacity, and improved treatment protocols for children with cancer.

Dr. Browne-Farmer revealed that since January 2020, approximately 16 children in Barbados have been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia under the hospital’s current treatment protocol, with more than 85 per cent now in remission.

She emphasized that Barbadian families have access to specialised pediatric cancer care locally and free of cost through the public healthcare system.

The programme also featured an inspiring testimony from 18-year-old Shellana David, who was first diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at the age of six and later experienced a relapse during adolescence. Now in remission, she is pursuing studies in nursing with the hope of supporting other children facing similar experiences.

Her story underscored the emotional challenges faced by children and families navigating cancer diagnoses, while also highlighting the importance of resilience, faith, and access to care.

The QEH continues to encourage parents and guardians to seek medical attention whenever they have concerns about a child’s health and reminds the public that early diagnosis and treatment remain critical in improving outcomes for pediatric cancer patients.