Abdyrazakova emphasized that thanks to funding from "Kumtor," the situation with the center's equipment has improved.
The allocated one billion soms for medications, according to her, has allowed the implementation of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which has been a significant step forward for the country.
She noted: "There are critics of targeted therapy who argue that it is better to start with basic medications. However, in the case of certain types of cancer, such as HER2-positive cancer, basic therapy is ineffective. Targeted therapy is necessary as it suppresses growth hormones that promote the division of cancer cells."
The head of the "Together Against Cancer" Foundation also talked about attempts to transition the oncology service to a paid basis, where some individuals suggested that patients should cover all treatment costs themselves. "Only thanks to the efforts of many people can patients now receive quality targeted medications for free," she added.
Nevertheless, work in this direction continues. The actual need is 4.5 - 5 billion soms per year to cover the needs of more than 30,000 patients. This is indeed an adequate amount, as the number of cancer cases is rising, and diseases are being detected at later stages. Medications are becoming more complex and expensive, and treatment courses are lengthy, which also increases the burden on the system.
Abdyrazakova emphasized the need for public education so that diseases are detected in a timely manner, and every person understands their responsibility for their health by undergoing examinations at least once a year.
"Unfortunately, funding for next year has not increased. A billion is a significant amount, but it only covers 20% of what is needed. We asked for at least 2.5 billion. The problem with purchases made by the state enterprise 'Kyrgyzpharmacia' also creates difficulties: of the allocated billion, only 800 million have been utilized, and 300 million remain unused. Now we are told: 'Why do you need more if you haven't utilized the funds?' This is not the fault of the doctors or directors, but systemic shortcomings in the work of 'Kyrgyzpharmacia,' which should purchase medications directly from manufacturers, while they often work through dealers, choosing whom to cooperate with," she explained.
Gulmira Abdyrazakova expressed confidence that the patient community will continue its efforts to ensure necessary treatment for all in need.
