Many Years of Experience — the Foundation of Success

In our country, the work carried out by the Oncology Scientific-Clinical Center plays a special role in achieving high results in the fight against oncological diseases. This center acts as the main authority for organizing and methodically guiding the relevant oncology services. It also provides methodological and practical assistance to all healthcare institutions regarding issues related to dangerous new growths.

Oncology Care and Development

Oncology care for the population is carried out in accordance with the Turkmenistan President’s socio-economic development program for 2022–2028, the “Saglyk” State Program, and the orders of the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry titled “Improvement of Oncology Service Work” and “Enhancing the Effectiveness of Oncology Care.”

History and Institutional Development

Historical data shows that since independence, the oncology service in our country has made great progress.

• In 1960, there were only a few oncology departments with about 100 beds,
• by 1965, the number of beds increased to 140,
• in 1968, the Oncology Institute was named the “Turkmen Oncology Scientific-Research Institute,”
• and since 1998, it has operated as the Oncology Scientific-Clinical Center.

In recent years, new oncology hospitals have opened in various regions:

• In May 2022, the Dashoguz regional oncology hospital,
• In June 2023, the new Oncology Hospital in Arkadag city.

Currently, the following institutions serve the population across the country:

• Oncology Scientific-Clinical Center,
• Oncology Hospital in Arkadag city,
• Oncology hospitals in Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap, and Mary regions,

and specialized oncology and examination rooms operate in city and district health clinics.

Prevention and Early Detection

Considering the recent global increase in dangerous tumors of the breast, uterus, and respiratory organs, regular screenings are conducted in the country for early detection of these diseases. This helps significantly reduce the number of advanced-stage cases.

Implementation of Digital Systems

High results have also been achieved in implementing digital systems for providing oncology care:

• All departments are equipped with modern computers,
• A digital communication system was established between the center and regional hospitals,
• A cancer registry for breast cancer was introduced,
• Plans are underway to create registries for other types of tumors.

New Departments and Opportunities

New scientific-clinical departments were opened at the center:

• Scientific-clinical department for breast cancer,
• Pediatric oncology department,
• Blood bank department,
• Admission and monitoring department,
• Department enabling chemotherapy under inpatient conditions.

Admission rooms now operate in 2–3 shifts, increasing accessibility of services. Effective scientific research is also being conducted at the center.

Education and Experience Exchange

The Department of “Radiation Diagnostics, Therapy, and Oncology” of the Turkmen State Medical University named after Myrat Garryyev is located at the center. The department’s staff works closely with the center. The department also has an advanced training section for oncologists and family doctors.

The Oncology Center serves as a practical training base for students of the Indira Gandhi Medical Secondary Vocational School in Ashgabat.

International Cooperation and Achievements

The Oncology Center collaborates closely with:

• World Health Organization (WHO),
• United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA),
• United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

In 2024, under WHO development programs, new medicines were brought to the country and are being regularly used. Improved standards for tumor diagnosis and treatment were developed and implemented in clinical practice.

International Recognition and Awards

In 2013, the Center was awarded the title “Innovative Enterprise” by the World Intellectual Property Organization. It was also declared a winner in the patriotic movement “My Contribution to Turkmenistan’s Socio-Economic Development.”

The achievements in oncology service make us proud and inspire us to reach even greater heights.