On 22 February 2026, Jordan marked a major milestone in childhood cancer care with the first delivery of life-saving medicines through the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines, becoming the first country in the Eastern Mediterranean Region to implement the initiative. Co-founded by WHO and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Global Platform ensures an uninterrupted supply of quality-assured childhood cancer medicines for low- and middle-income countries. Through a national partnership led by the Ministry of Health and involving institutions such as the King Hussein Cancer Center, Jordan Food and Drug Administration, Royal Medical Services, and King Abdullah University Hospital, 46 essential medicines will now be available to all children with cancer in Jordan, including refugees, supporting free treatment for patients up to 19 years old.
The initiative consolidates global demand, guides treatment protocols, and strengthens Jordan’s health system, providing access to medicines for approximately 3,000 children currently living with cancer and supporting the treatment of about 500 new cases diagnosed annually. The Global Platform, active in 12 countries, complements the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer and works with UNICEF and PAHO to ensure efficient procurement, treatment standards, and patient care tracking. By making life-saving medicines accessible, Jordan is transforming childhood cancer care, demonstrating global commitment in action, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity for effective treatment and hope for a healthy future.
