- What changes are occurring in the health of the population, and why are oncological diseases becoming increasingly relevant?
- We are observing a clear shift in the structure of mortality: despite the successes in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, the percentage of deaths from malignant neoplasms is increasing. This is not a coincidence, but a result of changes in demographics and medicine. People are living longer, and oncology is becoming a crucial task for the healthcare system. Therefore, it is necessary to develop the oncological service as a unified, technologically advanced system accessible to all.
Statistical data in Russia show an increase in the number of new cases of cancer and a change in their structure. Some types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer and breast cancer, are becoming more common among young people, which requires adaptation of treatment approaches. At the same time, there is a decrease in mortality from several types of tumors, indicating the need for long-term monitoring, rehabilitation, and control of patients living with an oncological diagnosis.
- What modern approaches are used in oncological care in Russia and abroad?
- Modern oncology is based on three main factors:
- individual characteristics of the patient,
- prevalence of the tumor process,
- biological characteristics of the tumor.
These three components determine the treatment strategy, and to achieve the best results, it is essential for doctors to have prompt access to diagnostics and various treatment methods, while patients should be able to receive the necessary help quickly.
The first aspect is the patient themselves. Age, comorbidities, previous treatments, and social factors significantly influence the choice of therapeutic strategy. The increasing number of primary multiple tumors requires the system to be ready for an interdisciplinary approach.
The second aspect is related to the staging of the disease. The quality of diagnostics and dynamic assessment of the patient's condition are critical for selecting the correct therapy. Ideally, clinicians should be able to use electronic databases to compare images and analyze the dynamics of the disease.
The third aspect is the biology of the tumor. The heterogeneity of tumors requires accurate morphological verification and molecular genetic studies. Without a strong laboratory base and oncopathological service, it is impossible to ensure adequate treatment selection and rational use of resources.
- How to organize an oncological care system? What steps need to be taken to improve its accessibility?
- I believe that the foundation of the system should be large oncological centers that combine outpatient and inpatient care. This will allow for the accumulation of experience in treating rare and complex cases without turning the center into an "unmanageable mega-complex." Ideally, such centers should serve a population of several million people.
At the same time, the focus should be on outpatient care, while inpatient conditions are intended for complex cases requiring surgical intervention or intensive therapy.
- What are the main components of a high-tech oncological center?
- The center should have specialized areas, such as oncogynecology, oncourology, and others, with a system of consultations for each field. Doctors should work as a unified team, making joint decisions and supporting the patient throughout the treatment process. It is important to focus on the quality of outcomes rather than the volume of services provided.
- What additional measures can improve oncological care?
- The model of the "oncological center of the future" should include:
Creating a unified digital contour with registries, access to data, and standardized protocols, which will help reduce variability and the risk of errors.
Navigation for patients, so they do not have to seek help on their own, which will significantly enhance treatment efficiency.
Quality management through measurable indicators and analysis of real practice, which will allow for process improvements.
Development of palliative care and symptom management with early involvement, positively impacting the quality of life for patients.
Implementation of preventive measures and early detection programs as part of a holistic system.
- What issues are most critical in organizing oncological services?
- No system will be effective without qualified personnel and adequate funding. It is necessary to ensure systematic training of doctors and mentorship, as well as to make oncological care accessible to all citizens. If treatment is unavailable, the purpose of the entire system is lost.
In conclusion, modern oncological care should be integrated, specialized, and patient-oriented, with quick access to diagnostics and treatment, as well as a systematic approach to workforce education. Such a model can reduce morbidity, lower mortality, and ensure a decent quality of life for patients.
- What are your impressions after visiting Manas, and what can you say about the region's problems?
- In November 2025, I visited Manas at the invitation of Jalal-Abad State University, where I spoke at a conference on oncology issues. I also participated in a meeting with the local administration.
I was pleased to see that local authorities are seriously concerned about the oncological problems of the population. This is an important step, as effectively addressing medical issues can significantly improve the social situation in the region by providing timely assistance for the most common diseases.
However, unfortunately, there is no full-fledged oncological service in Manas and the entire Jalal-Abad region, forcing residents to seek help in Osh or Bishkek, which creates additional difficulties.
Manas needs a modern oncological center that would serve as a practical institution for treating patients and scientifically training new specialists. Proper planning of such a center will allow for the development of oncological care and education in the country.
I am confident that a center established based on a university clinic can provide high-quality medical care and education in the field of oncology for the local population.
