Participants in the conference included Deputy Minister of Health Bakytbek Kadyraliev, representatives of the Jogorku Kenesh, the World Health Organization, as well as heads of specialized medical institutions, international partners, and medical experts.
During the discussions, the results of the pediatric oncology service's work since Kyrgyzstan joined the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer were summarized. It was established that approximately 200–220 new cases of cancer among children are registered in the country each year. The increase in detected cases is associated with improved diagnostics, the implementation of clinical protocols, and the development of a national cancer registry.
“Specialized departments for pediatric oncology and oncohematology operate in Bishkek and Osh. In 2024, for the first time, autologous bone marrow transplantation will be performed on a child in the country, which will be an important step in the development of high-tech medical care. Work is also ongoing to expand the transplantation program, create a modern laboratory base, and introduce new therapeutic methods,” the statement noted.
Sultan Stambekov, head of the pediatric oncology department at the National Center for Oncology and Medical Radiology, noted that in recent years, the service has reached a new level of development.
“Kyrgyzstan participates in the WHO Global Initiative, which allows for the implementation of international treatment standards and the development of a system based on evidence-based medicine. Our goal is to gradually increase the survival rate to the levels of developed countries and ensure that children have access to modern diagnostic and treatment methods, including bone marrow transplantation and cell technologies,” he stated.
Bakytbek Kadyraliev emphasized the importance of implementing innovative treatment methods, including preparations for the implementation of CAR-T therapy, in his speech.
“The development of pediatric oncology is not only a matter of image but also of saving lives. The state must create a reliable system where treatment does not depend on charitable donations. We aim to reduce the need for treatment abroad and develop high-tech medical care in the country, as well as strengthen international cooperation,” he noted.
During the conference, issues of early diagnosis, staff training, and expanding laboratory capabilities were also discussed.
As a result of the event, participants confirmed their readiness for further development of interagency cooperation, strengthening international collaboration, and implementing new projects aimed at increasing the survival rate of children with cancer and achieving strategic goals by 2030.
