Celebrating the Launch of Spain's First Pediatric Onco-Hematology Research Unit

START and HM Hospitales Open a Groundbreaking Pediatric Onco-Hematology Unit in Spain

On October 14, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in the fight against childhood cancer, as the START Center for Cancer Research (START) alongside HM Hospitales inaugurated Spain's first clinical research unit focused on pediatric onco-hematology at HM Montepríncipe University Hospital in Madrid. This pioneering facility opens new doors for children diagnosed with cancer, providing unprecedented access to cutting-edge clinical trials in a compassionate care environment.

Globally, cancer remains a grave concern for children, with an alarming 400,000 new cases identified each year, translating to roughly 1,000 new diagnoses daily. The collaboration between START and HM Hospitales underscores a commitment to combat this crisis with innovation and empathy. As Nick Slack, the Chairman and CEO of START, emphasized, "This new unit couldn't be more aligned with our mission of delivering 'Hope Through Access'."

The START Pediatrics unit is designed to facilitate all phases of clinical studies catering to pediatric oncology patients. Notably, the infrastructure addresses the specific regulatory needs inherent to pediatric trials while housing a staff deeply dedicated to creating a supportive atmosphere for young patients and their families.

Dr. Marta Osuna Marco, a leading pediatric oncologist, helms the new unit and speaks to the unique opportunity it represents, stating, "Working with children facing cancer is both humbling and inspiring…every day, we're giving families new hope." The availability of clinical trials opens new pathways to treatment when conventional options have been exhausted, enhancing the prospects for numerous children across Europe.

Dr. Juan Abarca, the President of HM Hospitales, expressed pride in the launch, stating that the facility provides a chance for innovative clinical trials for pediatric patients on par with what is available for adults. The partnership between START and HM Hospitales is a collaborative effort fueled by compassion, aiming to make life-saving treatments accessible to those who need them most. The initiative also owes its success to the support received from Fundación Nemesio Díez, which facilitated the unit's establishment through generous contributions.

This pediatric research unit exemplifies the mission of START, which is rooted in community involvement and dedicated to delivering specialty preclinical and early-phase oncology trials. Having conducted over 1,000 early-phase clinical trials, START is recognized as a forerunner in this field, where they have pioneered over 45 therapies that have gained approval from regulatory bodies like the FDA and EMA.

Through START Pediatrics, the cooperative endeavor extends an invitation for children battling cancer to participate in clinical trials that could lead to novel treatments. As highlighted by Dr. Emiliano Calvo, the Director of Clinical Research at START Madrid-CIOCC, this unit represents the realization of a long-sought vision aimed at significantly benefiting countless families.

The opening of the START Pediatrics unit signifies not just a new chapter in pediatric cancer research in Spain, but also a commitment to illuminate the path for children facing one of life’s toughest challenges. As the medical community continues to work toward innovative solutions, this unit stands as a beacon of hope, transforming the landscape for young patients struggling against cancer. Ultimately, the impact of this initiative transcends the hospital walls, cultivating a future laden with possibility and care rooted in human compassion.

For further updates, or to learn more about the START Center for Cancer Research, visit STARTresearch.com.