Curing Children
Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death among children and young adults. Yet today, many children with cancer can be treated successfully. Pediatric oncology, and the treatment of leukemia in particular, has become a remarkable success story. “Just a few decades ago, a diagnosis of leukemia was almost a death sentence,” says pediatric oncologist Jean-Pierre Bourquin. “Today, we can successfully treat 90 percent of children with blood cancer.” Bourquin’s research has contributed to this progress. He also heads the NCCR Children & Cancer, a joint initiative led by UZH and the University of Lausanne.
Over the next 12 years, this major research initiative will bring together scientists aiming to further improve pediatric cancer treatment. The dossier section in the latest UZH Magazine provides insights into innovative research conducted at the University of Zurich and the University Children’s Hospital Zurich. It highlights both the challenges and the advances being made in key areas of pediatric oncology, including leukemia, brain tumors and bone sarcomas.
From cockatoos to communists
The magazine also covers a range of additional topics, including a researcher’s first-hand account of traveling more sustainably, new insights into social learning in cockatoos, and an interview exploring Xi Jinping’s consolidation of power within the Chinese Communist Party. A selection of articles will be published on our website in English over the coming weeks.