Kyrgyzstan steps up cancer screening for children

Cancer cases in children on the rise in Kyrgyzstan, but not due to actual increase in incidence, Turanews.kz reports citing Kabar agency.

Sultan Stambekov, head of the Department of Pediatric Oncology and Oncohematology of the National Center for Maternal and Childhood Protection of Kyrgyzstan, he said that the incidence of cancer among children in Kyrgyzstan is on the rise, but this is not due to an actual increase in the number of cases.

Stambekov stated that the increase is due to improved registration and diagnosis of cancer cases in children.

“Today, the registration of sick children and their diagnosis have improved, in connection with which the detection rate has increased,” he said.

“As such, there is no increase in the incidence.”, he added.

In total, at the end of 2022, 180 new cases of oncological and oncohematological diseases among children were registered in Kyrgyzstan, 120 cases were registered in 2021, and 140 cases were registered in 2020.

The most common types of cancer in children in Kyrgyzstan are leukemia, lymphoma, and brain tumors. These cancers are often treatable, but early diagnosis is essential for the best possible outcome.

Stambokov urged parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of cancer in children, such as unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, fever, and bone pain. If a child is showing any of these symptoms, parents should see a doctor right away.

The government of Kyrgyzstan is working to improve the early detection and treatment of cancer in children. The National Center for Maternal and Childhood Protection has established a network of cancer treatment centers across the country. The government is also providing financial assistance to families of children with cancer.

Despite the challenges, Stambekov is optimistic about the future of cancer treatment in Kyrgyzstan. He said that the government is committed to providing quality care to all children with cancer.

“We are confident that we can make a difference in the lives of children with cancer,” he said.