Photograph of childhood brain tumor survival in Europe

Survival rates for childhood brain tumors depend on the type of tumor. Comparing survival rates across countries is difficult, as brain tumors are not recorded equally across Europe. A new study led by the Princess Máxima Centre in Utrecht is helping to change this situation. For the first time, the research provides a clear and clinically relevant overview of the survival outcomes of children with brain tumors.

Researchers analyzed data on more than 30,000 children diagnosed with a brain tumor between 1998 and 2013. The data came from 80 cancer registries in 31 European countries. The study is published in The Lancet Oncology .

The study focuses on the four most common types of brain tumors in children: low-grade gliomas, high-grade gliomas, ependymomas, and medulloblastomas .

The Dutch team analyzed short- and long-term survival, as well as the proportion of children considered cured. They used a new classification system that better reflects how doctors diagnose and treat brain tumors in practice.

"For this study, we restructured the tumor categories in cancer registries to match the current diagnosis," explains Raoull Hoogendijk . "This means the numbers now align much better with clinical reality, and physicians can use them more effectively to compare outcomes."

The study showed that survival differences between countries are smaller than previously thought. This suggests that children across Europe generally have access to similar treatments. Between 1998 and 2013, survival rates for children with brain tumors in the Netherlands were about average compared to other European countries, offering reassurance and guidance for further improvement.

"This study shows us where we stand in Europe and where there is room for improvement," says Henrike Karim-Kos , research group leader at Máxima and the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization (IKNL), and study coordinator. "For policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers, this summary provides valuable information to improve care and data collection. Together, we can work toward better outcomes for children with cancer."

For the first time, the study also details how many children can be considered cured . This data helps doctors and researchers refine treatments, with the ultimate goal of curing all children with cancer while preserving their quality of life.

Eelco Hoving, Clinical Director of Neuro-Oncology and pediatric neurosurgeon, who also collaborated on the study, adds: "This study demonstrates that survival rates for children with brain tumors have improved over the past 15 years. However, survival rates for children with high-grade gliomas remain far too low. Our findings highlight the urgent need for better treatments for these children, and for all children with brain tumors."