Strategic Focus

As a pan-Canadian pediatric cancer network dedicated to advancing childhood cancer experience, science and survivorship, we firmly believe that our collective expertise is our greatest asset.

Through strategic funding to generate new evidence and build collaborations, the members of ACCESS are tackling long-standing challenges with fresh tools and perspectives, grounded by the voices of Persons With Lived Experience.

ACCESS’ work is far from finished.

 

In the next phase of ACCESS, the network will build on a foundation of research excellence to drive the development of a new National Strategy for Pediatric Cancer centred on four key strategic pillars.

1. Maintain and expand ACCESS’ network of scientists, healthcare professionals, partner organizations, and Persons With Lived Experience

  • Maintain the unique participation of PWLE as thought-leaders
  • Position ACCESS for partnerships nationally and internationally
  • Catalyze private sector engagement and investment

2. Build a coordinated clinical trials system to support innovation and improve access to lifesaving treatments for children with cancer

  • Open, lead, and conduct more clinical trials in Canada
  • Increase participation of children in national and international trials
  • Attract global pharmaceutical, biotech companies, and international academic networks to invest and innovate in Canada

3. Advance collaborative research focused on critical areas of childhood cancer science

  • Focus on personalized medicine, immunotherapy, survivorship, and prevention
  • Explore collaborative solutions to address scientific and policy changes
  • Build connected, accessible research resources and infrastructure for efficient, collaborative research and implementation

4. Develop knowledge and innovation infrastructure

  • Design accessible educational and decision-making tools for patients and families
  • Build data resources and data sharing frameworks
  • Support cross-sector collaboration and knowledge mobilization
  • Form a testbed to identify challenges and explore solutions to systemic health system challenges

The launch of the Strategy in 2028 will be developed in partnership with the pediatric cancer community and led by ACCESS. These efforts will help ensure higher-quality and more equitable care for children with cancer in Canada, support increased “Made in Canada” research and innovation, and position Canada as a thought leader and a preferred partner for clinical trials and industry investment.

1500

In Canada, approximately 1,500 children and adolescents are diagnosed with pediatric cancer each year.

1 in 5

1 in 5 children will die from their disease.

10,000

Approximately 10,000 children and adolescents are living with cancer.

45,000

Childhood cancer survivors and their families are facing long-term medical, societal, and economic impacts from the disease.