The number of cases where families refuse medical assistance for their children is increasing
In Kyrgyzstan, there is a noted increase in cancer diseases among children. This information was announced at a meeting of representatives from the Ombudsman Institute with medical workers from the pediatric oncology and oncohematology departments of the National Center for Maternal and Child Health.
As of the end of 2025, about 60 children were receiving treatment at this center. Doctors report that the number of new cases is growing each year. For example, in 2014, there were 70 new cases registered, while in 2023, their number has already exceeded 200.
“The most common diagnoses are: acute lymphoblastic leukemia, brain tumors, neuroblastoma, and nephroblastoma. The increase in the number of patients is related not only to a real rise in incidence but also to improved diagnostic methods,” the representatives of the institute clarified.
In addition, doctors noted a growing trend of refusal of treatment among parents.
“Many citizens express distrust in medicine and face financial difficulties. Due to religious beliefs, they often turn to mullahs and folk healers. For instance, there was a case where the parents of a child with leukemia, after remission, decided to refuse traditional treatment and switch to alternative methods. A year later, the disease began to progress, and unfortunately, the child passed away,” the medical professionals shared their experiences with human rights defenders.
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