Progress in Numbers
Some people are concerned about the rising number of cancer cases among children. However, Sultan Stambekov, head of the pediatric oncology department at the National Center for Oncology and Hematology, asserts that this does not indicate a rise in incidence, but rather an improvement in diagnostics.“Childhood cancer remains unchanged. It is not influenced by environmental factors or bad habits, as in adults, but is caused by genetic mutations.
Previously, many children in remote regions did not receive timely diagnostics and died from complications that were attributed to other diseases.Previously, there were 8 cases per 100,000 children, and now there are 10-11. We are approaching global standards (14-18 cases), which indicates that we have become more effective in detecting the disease and providing a chance for treatment,” he explains.
Kyrgyzstan has joined the global WHO initiative aimed at increasing survival rates among children with cancer by 2030. Progress is evident: funding for pediatric oncology has increased from 20 to 200 million soms, allowing for the introduction of new drugs such as Blinatumomab (Blincyto), which significantly reduce the risk of relapses.
Issues for Adult Patients
Despite achievements in pediatric oncology, adults face serious challenges. Anastasia Gadzhieva emphasizes that there are only two cancer centers in the country — in Bishkek and Osh.“The problem lies in long waiting times and advanced stages of diseases due to late presentations. Although the government is increasing funding, there are still difficulties with the supply of medications: delays in deliveries lead to disease progression, and families are forced to cover additional expenses. Moreover, many important tests, such as MRI and flow cytometry, remain paid,” she notes.
Recommendations for Patients and Their Families
Based on her experience, Gadzhieva offers several "golden rules" for parents and patients:- Do not get carried away with "miracle herbs." Switching to folk remedies (mare's milk, dietary supplements) is a big mistake. Cancer does not wait for parents to finish their experiments.
- Seek a second opinion. If you have doubts, check the tests with another specialist. Knowing the exact subtype of the disease is critically important for choosing treatment.
- Do not isolate yourself. Both children and adults need support and communication with friends. Life should not stop during treatment.
- Look for alternatives. If local treatment methods are ineffective (for example, a bone marrow transplant is needed), consider options outside the country. The first successful transplant in Kyrgyzstan has already taken place, but the system is in the process of optimization.
Warning Signs (Checklist)
The "Sun of Hope" foundation reminds us that in the early stages, cancer may not show symptoms. Pay attention to the following signs in a child that require immediate medical attention:- prolonged fever (more than two weeks) without signs of a cold;
- persistent pallor, weakness, loss of appetite;
- unexplained bruises, bleeding, bone pain;
- painless lumps and swellings on the body.
The Future: From Therapy to Rehabilitation
Sultan Stambekov is confident that in the future, oncology will occupy one of the leading positions in significance, as medicine has already dealt with infectious diseases and heart defects.However, Kyrgyzstan lacks a systematic approach to rehabilitation. After treatment, patients are left alone with the psychological consequences.“Programs for socialization, organizing camps for children, and support for adult patients are needed. Cancer is a serious challenge, but we have more and more tools to overcome it,” the experts conclude.
Photo on the main page is illustrative: pharmasyntez.com.
