Kazakhstan aims to expand cooperation with U.S.-based St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which specializes in childhood cancers and pediatric diseases, according to the country’s Ministry of Healthcare.
During a meeting in Samarkand, Healthcare Minister Akmaral Alnazarova and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Executive Vice President Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo held talks.
A key topic was developing high-tech care for pediatric oncology patients, including the potential introduction of bone marrow transplantation, molecular diagnostics and cellular therapy.
New hospital in eastern Kazakhstan
The two sides also discussed a project for a multidisciplinary hospital complex in the East Kazakhstan region. It is expected to serve as an interregional center for specialized medical care for children from the East Kazakhstan, Pavlodar and Abay regions.
Alnazarova proposed involving St. Jude experts to support the project — specifically by training Kazakhstani physicians and conducting joint research and medical consultations.
Anti-cancer medications for children in Kazakhstan
The two sides also discussed Kazakhstan’s possible participation in a joint program by St. Jude and the World Health Organization (WHO) to increase the availability of anti-cancer medications for children.
The program provides high-quality cancer medications for children in participating countries. The specific terms of Kazakhstan’s participation will be determined in coordination with international partners.
