Since February 4, when the world observes World Cancer Day, experts in Kyrgyzstan have discussed the current state of oncology among children, focusing on improving diagnostics and the main problems of the healthcare system.
Sultan Stambekov, head of the pediatric oncology department at the National Center for Maternal and Child Health, noted that the increasing number of diagnosed cases of cancer in children is related to improvements in diagnostic technologies rather than an increase in incidence. "Previously, about 8 cases were registered per 100,000 children, and now this figure has risen to 10-11. This brings us closer to global standards, allowing for earlier diagnosis of the disease and giving children a chance for successful treatment," he explained.
Kyrgyzstan has become part of a global initiative by the World Health Organization aimed at increasing the survival rate of children with cancer by 2030. In recent years, funding for pediatric oncology has increased tenfold — from 20 to 200 million soms, which has allowed for the introduction of modern medications such as "BlinaTumomab," which significantly reduces the risk of relapses.
However, serious problems still remain in the field of adult oncology. Anastasia Gadzhieva, a representative of the Patient Community Union, emphasized that there are only two oncology centers in the country — in Bishkek and Osh.
"The situation is exacerbated by long waiting lines and advanced stages of diseases, as patients seek help too late. Although funding is increasing, there are difficulties with the procurement and delivery of medications. Delays in supplies lead to disease progression, and families are forced to cover expenses themselves," she added.
Moreover, a number of necessary tests, such as MRI and flow cytometry, remain paid services.
Experts recommend that patients not waste time after receiving a diagnosis and not rely on folk remedies for treatment. It is important to seek a second opinion and not to face the problem alone. If the necessary treatment is unavailable in the country, it is worth considering therapy options abroad. The first successful bone marrow transplant has already been performed in Kyrgyzstan; however, the system is still in the development stage.
The public fund "Sun of Hope" reminds that at early stages, cancer can manifest almost asymptomatically. It is urgent to see a doctor if there is a prolonged fever without cold symptoms, persistent pallor and weakness, unexplained bruising or bleeding, bone pain, and painless lumps on the body.
Experts are confident that in the future, oncology will become one of the key areas of medicine. Currently, the country needs a rehabilitation system, as many patients face psychological difficulties after treatment and require support.
The "Sun of Hope" fund emphasizes that help is not always about financial resources. Caring for loved ones, timely examinations, and open discussions about the problem can play a crucial role in saving lives.
