America News Agency

WHO published six new target product profiles (TPPs) aimed at developing child-appropriate formulations of essential medicines used in childhood cancers.

According to WHO data, approximately 400,000 children and adolescents develop cancer each year. Survival rates for childhood cancers remain below 30 percent in low- and middle-income countries, while exceeding 80 percent in high-income countries.

The statement said that the lack of age-appropriate medicines poses a major barrier to treatment. Children are often required to use formulations designed for adults, and difficulties in administering these medicines can lead to dosing errors and treatment-related risks.

The target product profiles prepared by WHO set minimum and ideal standards for new child-appropriate formulations of six cancer medicines: cyclophosphamide, etoposide, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, procarbazine and temozolomide.

The profiles were developed with input from experts within WHO’s Global Accelerator for Paediatric Formulations Network (GAP-f). As part of the work, an expert consultation was held in December 2024, while feedback was gathered in spring 2025 from industry experts, product developers, scientists, paediatric oncologists, pharmacists, formulation specialists and health workers.

WHO recommended prioritizing child-friendly options in new formulations, such as soluble or orally dispersible tablets, mini-tablets and multiparticulate dosage forms. Other key criteria included stable formulations suitable for hot and humid climates with a shelf life of more than 24 months, acceptable taste profiles, clear instructions for caregivers with low literacy levels, and affordable and sustainable manufacturing to support access in low- and middle-income countries.

Martina Penazzato, GAP-f lead within WHO’s Science Division, said, “Every child deserves safe, effective and age-appropriate medicines,” emphasizing the need for investment and innovation in the development of childhood cancer medicines.

WHO stated that the six published target product profiles could provide a basis for future assessment of these formulations under the WHO Prequalification Programme once they have been developed, and later for their inclusion in the Model List of Essential Medicines for Children.