Childhood Brain Tumors: New Research Overview
European Study Reveals Shifting Landscape of Childhood Brain Tumor Survival
A groundbreaking European study, analyzing data from 31 countries, offers a clearer and more up-to-date picture of survival rates and cure fractions for children diagnosed with the most common types of brain tumors.The research, which utilized a novel classification system reflecting current clinical practice, highlights both progress and persistent challenges in pediatric neuro-oncology.
Where Do We Stand?
The study focused on four prevalent pediatric brain tumors: low-grade gliomas, high-grade gliomas, ependymomas, and medulloblastomas. By restructuring tumor categories to align with contemporary diagnostic and treatment approaches, the researchers aimed to provide data that is more relevant and actionable for clinicians and policymakers.
“for this study, we restructured the tumor categories in the cancer registries to match how tumors are diagnosed today,” explains Dr. Raoull Hoogendijk, who contributed to the research as part of his PhD. “That means the numbers now align much better with clinical reality, and doctors can use them more effectively to compare outcomes.”
A notable finding of the study is that survival disparities between European countries are less pronounced than previously understood. This suggests a general convergence in treatment accessibility and quality across the continent. Between 1998 and 2013, survival rates for children with brain tumors in the Netherlands were found to be around the European average, offering a benchmark for both reassurance and future improvement efforts.
“This study shows us where we stand in Europe, and where there’s room to grow,” states Dr. henrike Karim-Kos, research group leader at the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology and coordinator of the study. “For policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers, this overview provides valuable insights to improve care and data registration. together, we can work toward better outcomes for children with cancer.”
A Foundation for Better Treatments
For the frist time,this extensive study also quantifies the proportion of children who can be considered cured of their brain tumors. These insights are crucial for refining treatment strategies, with the ultimate aim of achieving complete cures for all children while simultaneously preserving their quality of life.
prof. Eelco Hoving,Clinical Director of Neuro-oncology and a pediatric neurosurgeon involved in the study,emphasizes the progress made: “This study shows that survival rates for children with brain tumors have improved over the past 15 years. But survival for children with high-grade gliomas remains far too low. Our findings highlight the urgent need for better treatments for these-and all-children with brain tumors.”
The research, published in The Lancet Oncology, provides a vital foundation for future advancements in pediatric brain tumor treatment and care, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration and data-driven strategies across Europe.
Source: Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology
Journal Reference: Hoogendijk, R., et al. (2025). Long-term survival and cure fraction estimates for paediatric central nervous system tumours in 31 European countries (EUROCARE-6): a population-based study. The Lancet Oncology*. doi.org/10.1016/S1470-2045(25)00297-9