The dispersion of pediatric cancer biobanks in the Middle East: a global review of available resources

Abstract

Background: Pediatric cancer biobanks play an important role in advancing cancer research efforts and developing effective treatments. However, the majority of these biobanks are located in developed countries, leaving a large portion of the world's population without access to these critical resources. This article focuses on the current dispersion of pediatric cancer biobanks in the Middle East. Method: PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched using the terms ‘pediatric cancer biobank’ or ‘childhood cancer biobank’ or ‘children’s cancer biobank’, or ‘pediatric cancer biorepository’ or ‘childhood cancer biorepository’ or ‘children’s cancer biorepository’, along with ‘Jordan’, ‘the United Arab Emirates’, ‘Iran’, ‘Bahrain’, ‘Turkey’, ‘Syria’, ‘Iraq’, ‘Saudi Arabia’, ‘Oman’, ‘Qatar’, ‘Kuwait’, ‘Lebanon’, ‘Egypt’, ‘Yemen’, ‘Palestine’ with English language restriction. Results: Despite being a relatively recent development, some notable pediatric cancer biobanks have been established in the region, including the King Hussein Cancer Center Biobank in Jordan, the Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt Biorepository and Biospecimen Research Facility in Egypt, the Iranian Childhood Cancer Biobank in Iran, and national pediatric cancer biorepository in Qatar. Conclusion: However, several challenges still hinder the establishment and maintenance of biobanks in the region, including insufficient funding, lack of infrastructure and resources, limited awareness, and regulatory hurdles. Overcoming these challenges will require targeted investments, building infrastructure and awareness, and efficient regulatory frameworks. Developing and maintaining high-quality pediatric cancer biobanks within the Middle East could lead to a better understanding of pediatric cancer patterns in the region, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for pediatric cancer patients globally.