An interview with Professor Tim Eden, President of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology

Q. Can a difference really be made?
A. Yes! The most important thing is to empower local people in each country to develop the will to try to cure childhood cancer. The World Child Cancer Foundation can provide the stimulus and initial funding for sustainable projects that will make a real and lasting difference.

Q. What stops things working at present in lower income countries?
A. Individual, community and national limited resources and poverty are the major causes for no investment in childhood cancer services in these countries. In many countries the lack of awareness of cancer and its potential curability is a major obstacle. Overcoming that ignorance is crucial. Raising awareness, overcoming hopelessness and starting simply with a desire to support children and their families and give good palliative care will lead on to development of curative care.