Children's of Alabama Advances Pediatric Cancer Treatment Through Clinical Trials

Key Insights

• Children's of Alabama is pioneering advanced cancer treatments for pediatric patients through its robust clinical trials program.
• The hospital collaborates with institutions nationwide, providing access to cutting-edge therapies for children with cancer in Alabama.
• Clinical trials at Children's of Alabama offer hope for children with relapsed or treatment-resistant cancers, improving their chances of survival.

Children's of Alabama is at the forefront of pediatric cancer treatment, offering a beacon of hope through its comprehensive clinical trials program. Dr. Matthew Kutney, director of the Pediatric Clinical Trials Office, leads a team dedicated to providing children access to the most advanced cancer therapies available. These trials, conducted in collaboration with hospitals across the country, ensure that young patients in Alabama receive cutting-edge treatment without needing to travel out of state.

Access to Innovative Therapies

The Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, a joint effort between UAB and Children's of Alabama, facilitates access to a wide range of clinical trials. Currently, the hospital manages between 70 and 90 ongoing clinical trials, offering diverse treatment options for various types of childhood cancers. These trials are particularly crucial for children who have not responded to standard treatments or have experienced a relapse.

A Story of Hope and Recovery

Will Hicks, a leukemia survivor, is a testament to the impact of these clinical trials. Diagnosed at age two and identified as high-risk for relapse through genetic testing, Will received a clinical treatment in conjunction with traditional chemotherapy. According to his mother, Rebekah Hicks, the clinical trial was instrumental in his recovery. After a three-year battle, Will is now cancer-free and thriving at eight years old.

The Ongoing Pursuit of Cures

While advancements in treatment have significantly improved survival rates, Dr. Kutney emphasizes that the goal is to cure every child with minimal side effects. Despite the high success rates, the reality remains that not all children respond to treatment. The pediatric clinical trials at Children's of Alabama are driven by the hope of achieving a 100% cure rate and improving the quality of life for all young cancer patients. Dr. Kutney stated, "The success rates are very good, but we don't cure every child, and our goal is to cure every child and also to do so with the least side effects."