Current Status and Challenges in Pediatric Radiation Therapy in China: A
Nationwide Survey
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation
of the current state of pediatric radiation therapy (RT) in China,
identifying key challenges in infrastructure, workforce, and access to
advanced technologies while exploring opportunities for improving care
delivery. Methods and Materials: A 29-item online questionnaire
was distributed to radiation oncologists and clinical teams across
China, with 123 responses from 103 hospitals. The survey explored six
domains: hospital characteristics, radiotherapy equipment and
techniques, pediatric oncology staffing, patient admission and treatment
status, treatment and follow-up, and social work support and charitable
partnerships. Results: Among the 103 hospitals, 66.0% provide
pediatric RT, but only 7.4% have dedicated pediatric RT departments,
and 57% lack pediatric radiation oncologist. Advanced techniques like
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volume Intensity
Modulated Radiotherapy (VMAT) are widely used (95.1%), but only 11.7%
of hospitals offer proton therapy, and just 8.7% have
pediatric-specific radiotherapy machines. Anesthesia resources are
inadequate, with only 27.2% of hospitals equipped for sedation.
Furthermore, 78% of hospitals have not participated in clinical
research, and only 33% adhere to standardized treatment protocols.
Social work support and charitable partnerships are present in just 44%
of facilities. Conclusions: Significant gaps in pediatric RT
services, including shortages in workforce, advanced technologies, and
holistic support systems, hinder equitable care. Addressing these
deficiencies through workforce development, increased access to advanced
RT modalities, and enhanced support systems is essential to improving
outcomes for pediatric cancer patients in China.