Uzbekistan strengthens childhood cancer care services

Uzbekistan is enhancing its childhood cancer care services through comprehensive reforms and robust international collaboration. The country is implementing advanced strategies focused on early diagnosis, treatment accessibility, and overall quality of care for children with cancer.

The nation has joined the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) and the Global Platform for Access to Childhood Cancer Medicines. These partnerships aim to bolster international cooperation and improve treatment outcomes and survivability for children.

Significant steps include a new four-year memorandum of understanding signed in February 2026 between Uzbekistan's Ministry of Health and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. This agreement is designed to strengthen the country's capacity in pediatric oncology, refine clinical practices, and expand professional training for healthcare specialists.

"Uzbekistan’s progress would have been impossible without strong political commitment," stated Elmira Basitkhanova, Uzbekistan’s Adviser to the Minister on Maternal and Child Health Protection. WHO Representative in Uzbekistan, Dr Asheena Khalakdina, added that the nation has demonstrated how political will and partnerships can translate into tangible improvements for children and families facing cancer.