Neurorehabilitation Development

On August 30, the city of Uralsk hosted a Republican-level conference titled “Neurorehabilitation: Vectors of Development,” bringing together specialists from across Kazakhstan to address pressing issues in modern neurology and interdisciplinary rehabilitation. The event placed a strong emphasis on the treatment of motor disorders and post-stroke rehabilitation, particularly focusing on patients experiencing speech impairments.

Organized by local and regional healthcare institutions—including a higher medical college, a medical rehabilitation center, and a district hospital under the regional Health Department—the conference served as a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge and advancing collaborative approaches in neurorehabilitation.

The conference opened with a welcoming address from senior leadership in medical education, emphasizing the need for improved regional access to evidence-based neurological care. Moderated by a leading regional neurologist, the event brought together representatives from national universities, research centers, and public health institutions.

Participants explored a wide range of topics highlighting the strategic development of the neurological service in Kazakhstan. Presentations examined the national framework for managing neurological diseases, including the development of clinical standards and guidelines. Special attention was given to the creation and implementation of a national strategy for managing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

The role of rehabilitation in post-stroke care was one of the central themes. Experts presented on organizational models for stroke rehabilitation, regulatory policies, and clinical protocols currently in use. Discussions also covered therapeutic approaches for motor disorders, addressing challenges such as post-stroke shoulder complications and spasticity, with a focus on the integration of modern rehabilitation techniques.

Another key focus was the development of neurorehabilitation infrastructure within the healthcare system. This included the expansion of multidisciplinary teams comprising neurologists, rehabilitologists, speech therapists, physical therapists, and ergotherapists, aimed at providing patient-centered and continuous care. Presenters highlighted successful case studies and shared insights on standardizing care pathways from acute treatment to long-term rehabilitation.

In addition to physical rehabilitation, the conference examined cognitive and speech therapy methods, including innovative practices in aphasiology and music therapy for neurological patients. Emphasis was placed on interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as the importance of early intervention and individualized therapy plans to improve recovery outcomes.

Representatives from universities and national medical centers contributed expertise on neurology education and professional development. Their presentations emphasized the need for continuing medical education in neurorehabilitation and the integration of new technologies and treatment protocols into clinical practice.

The event also included discussions on the use of botulinum therapy in managing spasticity, the role of ergorehabilitation in restoring functional independence, and the impact of neurosurgical support for certain motor disorders. These contributions reflected the growing intersection of neurology, physical medicine, and rehabilitative sciences in Kazakhstan’s healthcare landscape.

The conference attracted a diverse and engaged audience, including neurologists, general practitioners, rehabilitation specialists, physical therapy instructors, speech-language pathologists, aphasiologists, and healthcare administrators. Their participation underscored the shared commitment to improving patient outcomes through interdisciplinary collaboration and system-level innovation.

As Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its healthcare system, events such as “Neurorehabilitation: Vectors of Development” play a crucial role in shaping national strategies and elevating the quality of care. By fostering dialogue across specialties and institutions, the conference highlighted the collective drive to advance neurorehabilitation practices and improve the lives of patients affected by neurological conditions.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy

As part of the continuing celebration of the 95th anniversary of S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University and the 90th anniversary of Professor S.K. Kaishybayev’s legacy, the Department of Neurology at KazNMU hosted an educational seminar focused on spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in adolescents and adults. The event took place on June 12–13 and was held within the framework of a cascade training initiative aimed at improving practical healthcare, in alignment with the Roadmap for Enhancing Neurological Care for the Adult Population of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan (No. 03324, dated January 23, 2025).

The seminar was organized with the support of the “Association of Neurologists” of Kazakhstan and the Institute of Continuing Professional Education at KazNMU.

Understanding Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Spinal muscular atrophies (SMA) comprise a group of inherited neuromuscular disorders characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the anterior horns of the spinal cord and brainstem motor nuclei, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. While SMA typically presents in infancy or childhood, there are adult-onset forms that emerge between the ages of 30 and 60 and progress slowly, primarily affecting proximal muscle groups. Diagnosis is confirmed through genetic testing. Notably, despite the physical decline, patients with SMA retain normal intellectual function.

Seminar Highlights

The seminar was led by Dr. S.T. Turuspekova, Head of the Department of Neurology at KazNMU, together with Prof. G.A. Mukhambetova, Assoc. Prof. R.B. Nurzhanova, Dr. N.A. Zharkynbekova (Head of the Department of Neurology, Psychiatry, Neurorehabilitation and Neurosurgery, South Kazakhstan Medical Academy), and Dr. B.D. Myrzalieva (Senior Lecturer, Department of Neurology, Kazakh-Russian Medical University).

Key topics discussed during the seminar included:

  • Epidemiology and diagnostic approaches to SMA
  • Common misdiagnoses masking SMA cases
  • Advances in pathogenetic therapy
  • Recent data on treatment response evaluation
  • Intrathecal drug administration and its therapeutic advantages
  • The importance of continuity in care and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment

The program also featured detailed case studies, video and photo materials from the personal archives of the speakers, and hands-on training in the functional assessment of SMA patients. Participants practiced using standardized tools such as RULM, HFMSE, and the 6MWT. A live demonstration was conducted with a real patient who had given prior consent to participate in the training.

Participant Feedback

A total of 25 neurologists from various regions across Kazakhstan—including Kokshetau, Astana, Kostanay, Kyzylorda, Shymkent, Zhetysu, Aktobe, Taraz, Semey, Shu, Petropavlovsk, and Almaty—attended the seminar. The attendees praised the high level of professionalism and expertise of the speakers and emphasized the importance of such educational events in raising awareness and enhancing care standards for patients with SMA across the country.

Kazakhstan-India: High-Tech Partnership

A meeting was held in the city of Akkol between the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbek, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India, Dr. Thathipamula Venkata Nagendra Prasad, to discuss Kazakh-Indian cooperation in the field of high technologies and scientific innovations.

The delegation visited the Data Processing Center (DPC) of JSC “Kazakhtelecom,” where they observed the PARAM BILIM supercomputer. Modernized and relaunched in March 2025, the supercomputer has become a key tool for scientific and educational initiatives.

A 144-hour educational program has been implemented, developed by faculty members of ENU in collaboration with C-DAC and Sharda University. The program covers quantum computing, quantum communications, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence technologies.

To date, more than 60 specialists, including employees of JSC “Kazakhtelecom,” JSC “Kazpost,” the Ministry of Digital Development, as well as master’s and doctoral students and faculty members of the Faculty of Information Technology at ENU, have completed training on operating the supercomputer.

The meeting continued in the conference hall of the Republican Space Communication Center, where the participants discussed the potential use of the supercomputer for analyzing telemetry data from the KazSat satellite constellation.

A key topic of discussion was the development of a supercomputing cluster, considering the commissioning of the KazNU supercomputer and the national supercomputer. Scientists from the Faculty of Information Technology at ENU presented a vision for establishing a regional Quantum Alliance involving India, Central Asian countries, Russia, and South Korea. This alliance aims to unite the region’s scientific potential for breakthrough developments in quantum technologies, which the Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan has identified as a priority area during the foresight session.

Among the promising projects proposed by the scientists are the creation of digital maps of Kazakhstan’s minerals and forests, as well as the forecasting of agricultural crop yields using supercomputing technologies. These initiatives are aimed at addressing strategic challenges in the areas of ecology, agriculture, and resource management.

Minister Sayasat Nurbek expressed gratitude to the Ambassador of India for supporting the activities of the India-Kazakhstan Centre of Excellence in ICT (IKCEICT) at ENU and for contributing to the strengthening of bilateral cooperation.

Pharmaceutical Technology Synergy

The Department of Pharmaceutical Technology at Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) has successfully implemented a dual education model that blends academic instruction with practical experience in real pharmaceutical production settings. Since 2010, this model has been developed in collaboration with leading scientific and industrial enterprises, including JSC “Scientific Center for Anti-Infectious Drugs,” LLP “Antigen,” and LLP “Kelun-Pharm,” all of which operate in accordance with national Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.

A Synergy of Theory and Practice

The dual education system enhances student training by integrating substantial hands-on experience into the academic curriculum. Key pharmaceutical disciplines—both mandatory and elective—are delivered directly at industrial sites. For example:

  • Industrial Drug Technology and Biopharmaceutical Aspects of Dosage Form Technology are taught at the JSC center,
  • Veterinary Drug Technology is conducted at LLP “Antigen”,
  • Industrial Drug Technology and Pharmaceutical Technology II are taught at LLP “Kelun-Pharm.”

Students also complete educational, industrial, and pre-graduation internships at these sites, gaining real-world experience in pharmaceutical workflows such as technological processes, GMP compliance, equipment handling, and quality assurance systems. These internships are enriched by the direct involvement of industry professionals, who deliver guest lectures, lead seminars, and conduct masterclasses.

This collaborative model ensures the relevance of educational content to the current demands of the pharmaceutical industry. Moreover, KazNMU is expanding its partnerships with European and CIS pharmaceutical enterprises, enabling international site visits and exchange of expertise.

Applied Research and Innovation

Alongside its educational initiatives, the department is actively involved in applied scientific research. A flagship example is the project titled “Development of Technology for Pectin-Containing Dairy Products Aimed at Removing Toxicants from the Human Body,” funded by the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan (2020–2022, 49 million KZT). This project developed functional dairy products (yogurt, cheese, ice cream) using low-esterified sugar beet pectin, which demonstrated significant detoxification effects in preclinical studies by reducing lead and cadmium levels in laboratory animals. Industrial trials were carried out at “SMAK” LLP.

The project is now in the commercialization phase at “ANADEL” LLP under a new grant from the Science Fund (2024–2026), with a total funding of 492 million KZT.

Through the successful integration of academic knowledge, hands-on industry training, and applied research, the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology at KazNMU continues to be a model of educational innovation. With robust partnerships and a 100% graduate employment rate, the department is not only preparing future pharmacists but also actively shaping the pharmaceutical landscape of Kazakhstan and beyond.

Kazakhstan-India: High-Tech Partnership

A meeting was held in the city of Akkol between the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbek, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of India, Dr. Thathipamula Venkata Nagendra Prasad, to discuss Kazakh-Indian cooperation in the field of high technologies and scientific innovations.

The delegation visited the Data Processing Center (DPC) of JSC “Kazakhtelecom,” where they observed the PARAM BILIM supercomputer. Modernized and relaunched in March 2025, the supercomputer has become a key tool for scientific and educational initiatives.

A 144-hour educational program has been implemented, developed by faculty members of ENU in collaboration with C-DAC and Sharda University. The program covers quantum computing, quantum communications, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence technologies.

To date, more than 60 specialists, including employees of JSC “Kazakhtelecom,” JSC “Kazpost,” the Ministry of Digital Development, as well as master’s and doctoral students and faculty members of the Faculty of Information Technology at ENU, have completed training on operating the supercomputer.

The meeting continued in the conference hall of the Republican Space Communication Center, where the participants discussed the potential use of the supercomputer for analyzing telemetry data from the KazSat satellite constellation.

A key topic of discussion was the development of a supercomputing cluster, considering the commissioning of the KazNU supercomputer and the national supercomputer. Scientists from the Faculty of Information Technology at ENU presented a vision for establishing a regional Quantum Alliance involving India, Central Asian countries, Russia, and South Korea. This alliance aims to unite the region’s scientific potential for breakthrough developments in quantum technologies, which the Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan has identified as a priority area during the foresight session.

Among the promising projects proposed by the scientists are the creation of digital maps of Kazakhstan’s minerals and forests, as well as the forecasting of agricultural crop yields using supercomputing technologies. These initiatives are aimed at addressing strategic challenges in the areas of ecology, agriculture, and resource management.

Minister Sayasat Nurbek expressed gratitude to the Ambassador of India for supporting the activities of the India-Kazakhstan Centre of Excellence in ICT (IKCEICT) at ENU and for contributing to the strengthening of bilateral cooperation.

Complement-Mediated Diseases

Observation and precision are qualities that have become not just desirable but essential in many modern professions. This is especially true in medicine, where such traits are indispensable for neurologists and nephrologists alike. These two specialties were at the heart of a recent educational seminar organized by the Department of Nervous Diseases at S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University. The event was part of a broader series of educational initiatives marking the 95th anniversary of the university and commemorating the 90th anniversary of Professor S.K. Kaishibayev.

Held on June 18, the seminar formed part of the university’s implementation of a cascade training model for healthcare professionals. It aligned with the Roadmap for Improving Neurological Care for the Adult Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2025–2027 (No. 03324 dated January 23, 2025). The event was supported by the “Association of Neurologists” NGO of Kazakhstan, the Department of Nephrology, and the Institute of Postgraduate Education at KazNMU.

The seminar focused on diseases related to complement system dysfunction — a crucial component of the immune system. When improperly activated or insufficiently regulated, the complement system can become a source of damage, contributing to the development of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Among these are conditions such as myasthenia gravis and thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs), which were key topics during the session.

The clinical aspects of myasthenia gravis in children and the targeted use of anti-complement therapy were discussed in detail, highlighting both therapeutic targets and the evidence base supporting this approach. TMAs, increasingly encountered over the past decade, were examined through an interdisciplinary lens. Despite growing awareness among clinicians, the complexity of differential diagnosis in such conditions remains a significant challenge.

The seminar featured presentations from Dr. S.T. Turuspekova, Head of the Department of Nervous Diseases at KazNMU; Professor G.A. Mukhambetova; Associate Professor R.B. Nurzhanova; and Associate Professor N.B. Nigmatullina from the Department of Nephrology. They shared insights into diagnostic strategies, modern therapeutic approaches, recent clinical data, and evolving treatment assessment techniques for generalized myasthenia gravis.

Of particular interest were clinical case presentations on TMAs by Associate Professor Nigmatullina, who shared her unique experience with anti-complement therapy, offering valuable practical perspectives to attendees.

The seminar brought together 25 neurologists and nephrologists from various medical institutions across Almaty. Participants praised the high level of expertise and professionalism demonstrated by the speakers.

The event received informational support from the Karaganda Pharmaceutical Complex.

SMA Diagnosis and Monitoring

The Department of Nervous Diseases at S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University continues its series of educational events dedicated to the university’s 95th anniversary and the 90th anniversary of the memory of Professor S.K. Kaishibayev. On June 17, 2025, a master class was held in the city of Aktau as part of the cascade training method for practical healthcare professionals. The event was implemented in accordance with the Roadmap for Improving Neurological Care for the Adult Population of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2025–2027 (No. 03324 dated January 23, 2025). The session was supported by the “Association of Neurologists” of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Health Department of the Mangystau Region, and the Mangystau Regional Multidisciplinary Hospital.

The master class was conducted by Professor G.A. Mukhambetova and Associate Professor R.B. Nurzhanova from the Department of Nervous Diseases at KazNMU. During the event, participants were introduced to the key diagnostic criteria for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), as well as the possibilities for comprehensive treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term monitoring of adult patients with SMA using international clinical assessment tools, including the Revised Upper Limb Module (RULM), Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE), and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). The educational program aimed to enhance the qualifications of physicians working with patients suffering from rare neurological diseases. Particular focus was given to modern approaches in evaluating motor function, planning therapy, and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

The management of adult patients with SMA is gaining increasing importance in today’s neurological and multidisciplinary practice. This growing relevance is driven by several factors. Advances in early diagnosis and the introduction of effective disease-modifying therapies—such as nusinersen, risdiplam, and onasemnogene abeparvovec—have significantly improved life expectancy, particularly for individuals with SMA types I and II. As a result, more patients are living into adulthood, necessitating a transition in care from pediatric to adult services.

However, adult healthcare systems have not always been fully prepared for this shift. Historically seen as a pediatric disorder, SMA often leaves adult patients “in the gap” following adolescence, without structured continuity of care between pediatric and adult neurologists. This can lead to disruptions in medical supervision, deterioration in clinical condition, and the loss of previously achieved functional progress.

In adults, the clinical course of SMA tends to differ from that in children. Disease progression is slower but still marked by a steady decline in function, along with orthopedic complications, respiratory impairments, and decreased endurance. There is often a psychological and emotional burden due to social isolation and reduced quality of life. These unique challenges call for a systematic and holistic monitoring approach, including the use of validated international functional scales, regular assessment of respiratory function, digestive health, nutritional status, pain levels, and psychosocial adaptation. Effective care requires the involvement of a multidisciplinary team including neurologists, pulmonologists, orthopedists, nutritionists, psychologists, and other specialists.

Access to treatment remains a critical issue, with many adult patients still facing barriers due to age, disease stage, or insufficient physician awareness. Nonetheless, adults have the same right to full-scale care and therapy as pediatric patients. Social and vocational rehabilitation is also vital. Given the chronic nature of SMA, support must go beyond medical treatment to include assistance with education, employment, accessible environments, personal development, and mental well-being.

Participants in the master class emphasized that the training marked a significant step forward in strengthening expert care for adults with SMA in Kazakhstan. “We not only mastered international assessment tools,” one attendee shared, “but also discussed how to apply them in real-world clinical settings. This will allow us to more accurately track disease progression and tailor treatment strategies to each patient.” The knowledge gained from the session is expected to be incorporated into the practice of specialized medical centers and form the basis for a multidisciplinary approach to adult SMA care across the country.

KazNMU students clinch victory at GxP-Fest

Students of the School of Pharmacy at S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) continue to strengthen their position on the international academic stage. Their recent successes at the prestigious international student competition GxP-Fest once again confirm the university’s high standards of education and professional preparation.

GxP-Fest has become a significant platform for pharmacy students from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and neighboring countries to demonstrate their knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences, Good Pharmaceutical Practices (GxP), and innovations in digital pharmacy. The event fosters international cooperation, professional networking, and the development of practical competencies in a competitive and inspiring environment.

For the past three years, KazNMU has consistently ranked among the top-performing institutions at the festival. In 2023, the university’s student team “XPLOSION” secured third place among 92 teams from seven countries, including Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and others. At the same time, the faculty team from KazNMU, led by Professor Z.B. Sakipova and Associate Professors L. Ibragimova, K.K. Kozhanova, and T.S. Bekezhanova, achieved second place among 41 academic teams from 61 universities, underscoring the high level of mentorship and academic leadership at the university.

Building on this momentum, KazNMU delivered an even stronger performance in 2024, as the competition introduced two distinct tracks: “GxP – Good Pharmaceutical Practices” and a project-based hackathon titled “Digital Pharmacy of the Future.” This expanded format allowed students to not only test their theoretical knowledge but also showcase practical solutions to real-world pharmaceutical challenges.

Two student teams from KazNMU, “Pantone 682 pc” and “MET Pharm,” advanced to the finals, reflecting the depth of talent at the university. The team “Pantone 682 pc” triumphed in the GxP-Fest 2024 quest, earning first place through their strategic thinking and mastery of pharmaceutical regulations. Meanwhile, the hackathon highlighted the university’s innovative capacity. The project “Digital Prototyping and Component Reproduction for Pharmaceutical Equipment,” presented by Sergey Shvets and Musa Sultanbekov, won first place for its creative and practical application of digital technologies in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Additionally, a project focused on AI-powered risk management by Satour Abdul-Aziz and Mukhammadali Khodjametov was awarded third place, emphasizing KazNMU’s integration of emerging technologies into its academic framework.

In another key victory, first-year master’s students Sergey Shvets and Stanislav Ledenev won first place in the “Digital Pharmacy of the Future” category. Their project outperformed teams from top universities in both nearby and distant countries, proving the competitive edge and innovation potential of KazNMU’s students on a global level.

These achievements are a testament not only to the students’ dedication but also to the university’s strategic approach to education. KazNMU places a strong emphasis on combining foundational pharmaceutical sciences with training in digital competencies, quality management systems, and applied research. This holistic model ensures that students are prepared for both academic excellence and the dynamic demands of the modern pharmaceutical industry.

Participation in GxP-Fest contributes significantly to the development of professional and research skills among students. It encourages cross-border collaboration, fosters innovation, and provides a platform for exchanging ideas with peers from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. Through such international experiences, students expand their professional horizons, build meaningful academic networks, and contribute to the growth of pharmaceutical science in Kazakhstan and beyond.

KazNMU’s sustained success at GxP-Fest highlights the university’s commitment to excellence and its vision of developing globally competitive pharmacy professionals. By continuing to support student innovation, foster academic leadership, and promote international engagement, the university is playing a key role in shaping the future of pharmaceutical education across the region.

KazNMU Sets the Pace for a Healthy Nation: Celebrating World Health Day with Unity, Movement, and Purpose

On April 7, 2025, in celebration of World Health Day, the S.D. Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) once again demonstrated its role as a national leader in promoting a culture of wellness and active living. In a vibrant and uplifting series of events, the university brought together students, faculty, and healthcare professionals in a shared commitment to health — not only as a field of study, but as a lived, everyday practice.

From the early hours of the morning, Karagaily Park and the square in front of the Rector’s Office were filled with energy, music, and movement. Participants of all ages and roles within the university community — from enthusiastic students to professors and staff — came together in a dynamic flashmob-style morning workout. This lively gathering created a powerful atmosphere of unity, motivation, and vitality. With every synchronized stretch and coordinated movement, the event sent a strong message: that health is born in motion, that energy arises from community, and that wellness is a habit, not a coincidence.

The initiative didn’t stop in the central locations. Across all university clinics, healthcare professionals stepped out of their usual settings and into open public spaces to participate in morning workouts of their own. Dressed in scrubs, lab coats, and sportswear, they proved by example that even those who care for others must care for themselves first. These outdoor activities weren’t just symbolic — they were sincere efforts to model a lifestyle that prioritizes health as a conscious, daily choice. By doing so, they reminded the public that medical professionals are not only caregivers but also role models in the ongoing pursuit of wellness.

At KazNMU, the message is clear: health is not just something we talk about — it’s something we embody. Sport is more than just physical movement; it is a path toward resilience, clarity, and sustainability, both personally and professionally. This understanding is deeply rooted in the university’s philosophy, where education and healthy living go hand in hand. The World Health Day celebration served not only as an opportunity to raise awareness but also as an invitation to make movement a meaningful and lasting part of everyday life.

This day also served as a reminder that, in a world increasingly dominated by screens and sedentary routines, the simple act of moving our bodies together can be revolutionary. It is a way of reclaiming energy, reconnecting with ourselves, and reinforcing a shared commitment to a better, healthier future. Each participant, through their presence and effort, contributed to something greater — a collective spirit that transcends a single day or event.

KazNMU extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who joined this initiative, who inspired others by showing up, and who proved that change begins with small, consistent actions. The hope is that this celebration will spark a new tradition — one that replaces passivity with purpose, and routine with ritual. Let this morning’s workout be more than a memory; let it be the beginning of a movement — one that continues to grow with each step, stretch, and smile.

Today, KazNMU didn’t just host an event. It set a rhythm. A rhythm of responsibility, of unity, of proactive care for the body and mind. The university reminded everyone that health is not seasonal or situational — it is the foundation of everything else we strive for. Through shared movement and mutual support, KazNMU painted a vivid picture of what a healthy nation can look like — one step, one heartbeat, one community at a time.

As World Health Day comes to a close, what remains is the uplifting energy of participation, the joy of movement, and the shared hope that this momentum will carry forward into every day that follows. May this event be remembered not only as a celebration but as a call — a personal victory over inertia, and a collective step toward a future where health is lived, not just learned.

The Role of Adjuvants in Pain Syndrome Therapy

Department of Nervous Diseases of Asfendiyarov KazNMU continues its series of educational events for healthcare practitioners dedicated to the 95th anniversary of our esteemed university and the 90th anniversary of Professor S.K. Kaishibaev’s memory.

On February 20, a webinar on the topic “The Role of Adjuvants in Pain Syndrome Therapy” was held for neurologists, general practitioners, therapists, and residents. The webinar was conducted by the Head of the Department of Nervous Diseases at KazNMU, Chief Neurologist of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Turupekova S.T.

The definition of pain provided by experts from the International Association for the Study of Pain is as follows: “An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage or described in terms of such damage.”

Pain can occur not only due to tissue damage but even in the absence of any damage, highlighting the significant role of psychological factors in the formation and maintenance of pain.

Pain syndromes occupy a predominant position in the structure of neurological and rheumatological diseases. Pain is the most common reason for patients seeking emergency medical care—accounting for 52% of cases. However, 30% to 80% of patients do not receive adequate pain relief.

Back pain remains a leading cause in the structure of non-infectious diseases regarding years of life lost due to persistent health deterioration. It is one of the most common complaints among working-age individuals. Throughout life, dorsalgia occurs in 70–90% of the population in developed countries and is noted annually in 20–25% of people. Dorsalgia, or back pain, is a clinical syndrome caused by various factors. Pain can result from diseases and injuries of the discs (disc protrusion, herniation) and intervertebral joints (facet joint osteoarthritis), among other conditions.

The number of people experiencing back pain has risen dramatically in recent decades, making it the most common complaint worldwide. Most domestic and international studies indicate no clear link between the severity of degenerative-dystrophic morphological changes in the spine and the presence or intensity of back pain. Notably, MRI findings of intervertebral disc pathology are often observed in healthy individuals, and clinical studies have repeatedly shown that detecting pathological changes in intervertebral discs does not necessarily predispose individuals to back pain over time. Importantly, inadequate or delayed treatment of acute pain can lead to its transformation into chronic pain and the development of pain behavior, perpetuating and sustaining the pain cycle, ultimately leading to patient maladaptation.

What is an Adjuvant?

The term translates to “helping” or “supporting.” In other words, it refers to a substance or combination of substances used to enhance a response. Adjuvant therapy can have two meanings:

1. Serving as assistance or support: auxiliary.

2. Enhancing the effectiveness of medical treatment.

The first use of adjuvant therapy was by American oncologist Emil Frei in the early 1970s. He administered a course of postoperative chemotherapy to a patient with bone sarcoma. The experiment was successful, and today adjuvant therapy is part of treatment protocols for many oncological diseases.

In modern medicine, adjuvant medications are an integral part of pain syndrome therapy, helping to increase treatment effectiveness, reduce the dosage of primary analgesics, and minimize side effects. During the event, Saule Turuspekova provided a detailed explanation of the mechanisms of action of adjuvants, their role in comprehensive pain management, and their application for various pathological conditions.

Key questions discussed included:

• What groups of drugs are considered adjuvants, and how do they work?

• When and for whom should adjuvant therapy be prescribed?

• Current scientific data and clinical guidelines on the use of adjuvants.

The webinar was attended live by 80 specialists from various regions, and a recording of the webinar is also available for viewing.

The webinar was held with informational support from Unipharm and the MedQ Kazakhstan platform.