World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Pediatric Oncology, Hematology, and Immunology in Uzbekistan on Tuesday, accompanied by the First Lady of Uzbekistan and Chairperson of the Zamin Foundation's Board of Trustees, Ziroat Mirziyoyeva. During the visit, they engaged with patients suffering from childhood cancer and their families, and reviewed treatment and rehabilitation programs implemented at the center.
The event featured detailed presentations on the National Strategy for Developing Childhood Cancer Services, developed with WHO support. This strategy includes the implementation of a digital patient referral system, strengthening of regional infrastructure, training of personnel, and the development of an International Academic Network as a platform for scientific research and innovation. The initiative aims to enhance efficiency in pediatric oncology across Uzbekistan.
The guests also toured the Mehrli maktab hospital school for children undergoing long-term treatment, where they conversed with students and educators. They observed educational activities and participated in some events. It was emphasized that children here receive not only medical care but also education and social support.
On platform X, Tedros Ghebreyesus praised Ziroat Mirziyoyeva as a leader in the fight against childhood cancer and in improving the lives of children with oncological diseases. He noted that the Zamin Foundation plays a crucial role in promoting services in pediatric oncology and medical education, as the network of Mehrli maktab hospital schools operates actively not only in Tashkent but also in other regions.
Tedros highlighted that among the children he spoke with were Samira, a cancer survivor who participated with Ziroat Mirziyoyeva in a childhood cancer event at the UN General Assembly session in New York last year, and Dilnavoz, a talented artist who recovered from cancer and aspires to become a translator. The WHO Director-General confirmed the organization's readiness to continue support in this direction and to develop cooperation with regional and international partners to help more children overcome cancer.
It is recalled that on the same day, the WHO Director-General also met with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva, underscoring Uzbekistan's active engagement in international health cooperation.
Source: www.gazeta.uz