In recognition of the 2-8 November Leukemia Awareness Week for Children, a special celebration was organized for patients and their families at the Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Medicine Hospital. The event was hosted by the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Department, with participation from Hospital Chief Physician Prof. Dr. Ünsal Özgen, Provincial Health Director Dr. Mustafa Uras, Head of Public Hospitals Services Dr. Uğur Sezgin, Chair of the Department of Pediatric Health and Diseases Prof. Dr. Mustafa Ali Akın, Head of Pediatric Hematology Prof. Dr. Canan Albayrak, as well as academicians, doctors, social services managers from Samsun Metropolitan Municipality, and hospital staff.

“Advancements in leukemia treatment continue to increase patient survival rates”

In her opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Canan Albayrak, Head of the Pediatric Hematology Department, emphasized, "Leukemia is the most common cancer type in children, occurring in approximately one out of every 25,000 children. Without treatment, it is a fatal disease. Advancements in leukemia treatment are allowing us to save more lives each day. Targeted treatments, known as smart drugs, have improved success rates in treating this malignancy. Social activities like these remind our patients that they are not alone during their 2-3 year-long treatment. Our administrators, staff, and all healthcare professionals stand by our patients through this journey.”

The celebration concluded with a music performance, cake cutting, and the presentation of gifts for the children.