According to the Ombudsman Institute, the situation at the National Oncology Center remains extremely tense. The institute's press service reports a severe shortage of modern equipment, which significantly complicates the provision of quality medical care to cancer patients.
During a monitoring conducted in August 2025, it was found that out of three linear accelerators for radiation therapy, two machines were out of order, while treatment was only being conducted on an outdated device called "Babatron." Even if all three machines were operational, providing timely treatment for all those in need would be extremely difficult: over the past five years, only 25.6% of patients with newly diagnosed cancer have been able to receive radiation therapy.
Additionally, the radiation therapy department is facing a shortage of specialized fixation devices, such as thermoplastic masks, which are necessary for the proper positioning of patients and safe irradiation of tumors. The complete absence of pediatric thermomasks makes it impossible to carry out procedures for young patients.
Human rights defenders also point out the outdated mammogram machine, which has not been updated since 2014, the only ultrasound machine, as well as the lack of angiographs and modern endoscopic and laparoscopic systems. The situation is exacerbated by the absence of linear accelerators in the regions, forcing patients from various parts of the country to travel to Bishkek for treatment.
The Ombudsman Institute emphasizes that the current state of equipment does not meet international standards, jeopardizing timely treatment and the health of thousands of citizens suffering from cancer.
