Bishkek, Feb. 12, 2026. /Kabar/. The number of cancer cases in Kyrgyzstan continues to rise, with about 6,000 new cases registered each year, Deputy Director of the National Center of Oncology and Hematology Amangeldi Zhumabaev said on ElTR television.
According to Zhumabaev, more than 30,000 patients with oncological diagnoses are currently registered in the country. Despite the growing incidence rate, mortality has gradually declined over the past 20–25 years due to improvements in diagnostics and treatment methods.
The most common type of cancer in Kyrgyzstan remains stomach cancer, followed by breast cancer among women and lung cancer. Zhumabaev noted that one of the main factors contributing to the high prevalence of stomach cancer is Helicobacter pylori infection, which may lead to the disease in 60–70% of cases. The infection can be detected through laboratory testing and treated, significantly reducing risks.
Late detection remains a serious issue. Cancers of internal organs — including lung, liver, esophageal and intestinal cancers — often show no noticeable symptoms at early stages. In most cases, patients seek medical help only after severe symptoms appear.
Zhumabaev also addressed prevention measures. Liver cancer is frequently associated with viral hepatitis, while cervical cancer is linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). Kyrgyzstan has been conducting free HPV vaccination for girls for the past three to four years, which is considered an effective preventive measure.
He recommended that women under 40 regularly visit a gynecologist, while women over 50 undergo mammography screenings to ensure early detection of breast diseases.