e-QuoL Facilitates Reporting and Raises Awareness to Protect Children with Cancer from Abuse

At e-QuoL, we recognise that children with cancer may face an increased risk of abuse compared to the general population due to factors such as psychological vulnerability, caregiver fatigue, and the financial burden that families may face in managing medical treatments.

As part of Work Package 8 on Ethics, e-QuoL is engaging with experts across different countries to better understand the challenges of identifying and addressing abuse in this context. Our aim is to support healthcare professionals by providing guidance and resources to help them recognise and report suspected cases.

While digital tools are being examined as possible avenues for early detection, no formal protocols or solutions have been implemented at this stage. Any future measures will be developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals and relevant stakeholders to ensure their effectiveness and ethical integrity.

It’s important to note that while the e-QuoL platform provides vital support and guidance, it does not replace medical care or emergency intervention. Children at risk will be referred to appropriate national resources for further support.

With this approach, e-QuoL aims to set a benchmark for child protection in research involving children with serious or chronic illnesses. Our project not only prioritises the safety of minors, but also hopes to inspire wider research efforts to adopt child protection frameworks in digital health initiatives.