Epidemiology of Pediatric Brain Tumors was the opening topic. Dr. Archie Bleyer provided numerous informational facts. Brain tumors may be as common as leukemia when you include all brain tumors. For Y2K 1 in every 3-4 cancer deaths in children are due to CNS tumors. Children numbering 20,000-25,000 die annually from brain tumors.
Less progress is made with brain tumors than any other type of cancer.
In conclusion, the central nervous system provides the greatest challenge in pediatric oncology and despite the tremendous advancements of the past decade, more advancements need to be made. The cooperative groups, such as the Children's Oncology Group and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium, continue to work together to find a cure for central nervous system tumors. Dr. Robert Zimmerman from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia presented Advances of Pediatric Neuro Imaging. He explained the significance in the measurement of choline ratios in tumors stating that the more malignant tumors have increased choline levels. Improving cure rates, reducing radiation or eliminating when possible, modifications of delivery and techniques are key goals for improvements in radiation oncology.