Research and treatment under one roof

The “Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg” (KiTZ) is a joint institution ofthe German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) and Heidelberg University (Uni HD). Like the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), which focusses on adult oncology, KiTZ is based on the US model of so-called “Comprehensive Cancer Centers” (CCC). 

As a therapy and research center for oncologic and hematologic diseases in children and adolescents, KiTZ is committed to scientifically exploring the biology of childhood cancer and to closely linking promising research approaches with patient care – from diagnosis to treatment and aftercare. Children suffering from cancer, especially those with no established therapy options, receive an individual therapy plan at KiTZ, which is created by interdisciplinary expert groups in so-called tumor boards. Many young patients can participate in clinical trials which ensures access to new treatment options. 

Thus, KiTZ is a pioneering institution for transferring research knowledge from the laboratory to the clinic.