Study Highlights Global Gap in Pediatric Palliative Care Access
A new global analysis in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health estimates that 10.6 million children aged 0–19 experienced serious health-related suffering in 2023, with 96% living in low and middle-income countries where access to palliative care remains limited. Using updated methods based on the Lancet Commission framework and Global Burden of Disease data, researchers tracked trends from 1990 to 2023. While overall numbers changed little over three decades, the burden shifted significantly toward children living with chronic or progressive conditions. The findings highlight an urgent need for expanded pediatric palliative care services, stronger health policies, and investment to reduce preventable suffering worldwide.