On February 18 in Bishkek, a conference titled "Childhood Oncology in Kyrgyzstan: From Global Standards to Local Victories - New Horizons 2026" was held, dedicated to the month of awareness about childhood cancer.
The Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic reported that the event summarized the work of the childhood oncology service since Kyrgyzstan joined the WHO Global Initiative to combat childhood cancer. Approximately 200-220 new cases of cancer among children are recorded in the country each year. The increase in cases is associated with improved diagnostics, the introduction of clinical protocols, and the development of a national cancer registry.
The Deputy Minister of Health Bakytbek Kadyraliev, representatives of the Jogorku Kenesh, the World Health Organization, as well as heads of medical institutions and international partners participated in the conference.
In his speech, Bakytbek Kadyraliev emphasized the importance of implementing modern treatment methods, including preparation for CAR-T therapy. "The development of childhood oncology is not just a matter of image; it is a matter of saving lives. We must create a sustainable system so that the treatment of children does not depend on charitable fundraising. It is important for us to reduce the number of trips abroad, expand high-tech assistance within the country, and strengthen international cooperation," he noted.
Specialized departments of pediatric oncology and pediatric oncohematology operate in Bishkek and Osh. In 2024, the first autologous bone marrow transplant will be performed on a child in the country, marking an important step in the development of high technologies in medicine. Efforts continue to expand the transplantation program, create modern laboratories, and implement innovative treatment methods.
Sultan Stambekov, head of the pediatric oncology department at the National Center for Oncology and Hematology, noted that the service has reached a new level in recent years. "Kyrgyzstan participates in the WHO Global Initiative on Childhood Cancer, which allows us to implement international treatment standards and develop the system based on evidence-based medicine. Our goal is to gradually increase the survival rate to the levels of developed countries and ensure children's access to modern diagnostic and treatment methods, including bone marrow transplantation and cell technologies," he added.
Particular attention was paid to issues of early diagnosis, training of specialists, and expanding laboratory capabilities.
As a result of the conference, participants confirmed their readiness for further development of interagency cooperation, strengthening international ties, and implementing new projects aimed at increasing the survival rate of children with cancer and achieving strategic goals by 2030.
