Tag: Kazakhstan

On January 22, 2025, doctors at the University Clinic of the Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) successfully performed a remarkable corneal transplant surgery, giving two patients a new chance at better vision. The donor corneas were harvested from a deceased 55-year-old man, whose family made the generous decision to donate his organs and save multiple lives.

The surgeries were conducted as part of a masterclass for local ophthalmologists and medical residents, offering them an opportunity to learn advanced surgical techniques in corneal transplantation. Marat Suleimenov, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at KazNMU, explained the significance of this case, highlighting the rarity of local donors. “Unfortunately, since 2015, we have had limited access to donor materials due to a lack of public awareness and the reluctance to give consent for organ donation,” Suleimenov said. He emphasized that this successful procedure was a result of the family’s willingness to donate not only the corneas but also the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. These additional organ transplants were carried out in collaboration with the Kazakh Research Institute of Cardiology and Internal Diseases and the A.N. Syzganov National Scientific Center of Surgery. Through their decision, the donor’s family contributed to saving several lives.

Currently, Kazakhstan faces a significant shortage of donor materials, forcing local clinics to rely on imported corneas from the United States. This situation has made it difficult to meet the growing demand for transplants. As Suleimenov pointed out, nearly 1,000 patients in Kazakhstan are currently in need of corneal transplants, 25% of whom are children. The surgeries performed with local donor organs highlighted the importance of raising awareness about organ donation within the country.

The masterclass provided during the surgeries not only helped the patients but also played a key role in training local medical professionals. By observing the procedures firsthand, ophthalmologists and residents gained valuable experience that will allow them to apply these techniques independently in the future. This training is seen as a crucial step in improving the overall level of ophthalmic care and reducing reliance on foreign expertise.

The successful transplants would not have been possible without the ongoing support of the Qazaqstan Khalqyna Foundation, which has played a vital role in funding similar procedures. To date, the foundation has helped facilitate 243 corneal transplants, providing many patients with the gift of restored vision. However, much work remains, as the current demand far exceeds the number of available donor organs.

Organ donation in Kazakhstan is still a sensitive issue, with many families hesitant to give consent due to a lack of awareness or cultural beliefs. Medical professionals and public health advocates are calling for comprehensive public awareness campaigns to address these issues and encourage more families to consider donation. By educating the population on the life-saving potential of organ transplants, they hope to create a culture of acceptance and cooperation.

This recent case also demonstrated the efficiency of Kazakhstan’s medical system in coordinating organ transplants across multiple institutions. The seamless collaboration between different hospitals ensured that the donated organs were quickly allocated to patients in critical need, maximizing their impact. It also showcased the country’s potential to expand its organ transplant program through increased public participation.

KazNMU Rector Marat Shoranov emphasized the importance of such partnerships and innovative practices for the future of Kazakhstan’s healthcare system. He noted that collaboration with international organizations and local initiatives would help improve both the quality and accessibility of medical services. Shoranov expressed hope that the success of this case would inspire more families to give consent for organ donation and help close the gap between the number of patients in need and the availability of donor organs.

The recent corneal transplant surgeries serve as a powerful example of how organ donation can save lives and improve the quality of life for many individuals. The two patients who received new corneas now have the chance to restore their vision and lead more fulfilling lives. At the same time, the other recipients of the donor’s heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs have received life-saving transplants, highlighting the profound impact of one family’s decision.

As Kazakhstan continues to develop its organ transplant capabilities, medical professionals remain optimistic that increased public awareness, ongoing support from organizations like the Qazaqstan Khalqyna Foundation, and improved training for local doctors will lead to a more sustainable and effective transplant system. The hope is that, in the future, cases like this will become more common, ensuring that those in need of transplants can receive timely and life-changing medical interventions. The success of this operation is a step toward that vision, demonstrating the power of organ donation to create new beginnings.

On the 30th of August, 2024 – The Constitution Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan – the 3rd International Conference “TOPICAL ISSUES OF PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION” was held in Astana in a hybrid format and was organized with the support of the Federation of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of Kazakhstan.

According to WHO, currently about 2.4 billion people in the world suffer from diseases that require rehabilitation. The purpose of this conference is to focus on the development of rehabilitation services in the Republic of Kazakhstan, modern methods of rehabilitation treatment, further improvement of the system of training and professional growth of specialists in the field of physical medicine and treatment. The conference highlighted the latest guidelines and innovative approaches in the field of neurorehabilitation, cardio rehabilitation, on core habilitation based on the principles of evidence-based medicine, as well as issues of legal protection of a medical worker. The conference was attended by leading rehabilitation specialists in neurology, cardiology, oncology, traumatology of Kazakhstan and foreign countries, such as South Korea, the USA/Japan, Russia. Speakers and participants had the opportunity to share the achievements of practical rehabilitation in Kazakhstan.

The teaching staff of the Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University took an active part in this event. Turuspekova S.T., Head of the Department of Nervous Diseases, chief non-stuff neurologist of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan was the moderator of the Neurorehabilitation section and made a report “Possibilities of drug support in the rehabilitation of patients with central nervous system damage”, assistant of the Department of Nervous Diseases Demesinova B.K. introduced the audience to the modern view in the treatment and rehabilitation of acute and chronic pain in the lower back. Seidanova A.B., Chief non-stuff specialist of the Almaty Health Department, head of the Department of Neurorehabilitation of the State Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Almaty, assistant of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, devoted her speeches to the latest review of neurorehabilitation algorithms, as well as robotic therapy in early post-stroke rehabilitation of the upper limb. The report of Ibraeva O.S., Master of Medical Sciences, Assistant of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, was devoted to the algorithm of cardiorehabilitation based on the principles of evidence-based medicine. Dosybaeva A.Zh., head of the Department of Neurorehabilitation of the State Clinical Hospital No. 7 in Almaty, assistant of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sports Medicine, spoke about the use of Bimeo Biofeedback therapy in restoring the function of the upper extremities.

According to forecasts, due to changes in the field of health and demographic composition of the population, estimated rehabilitation needs around the world will increase. As a result of increased life expectancy, the population over the age of 60 is expected to double by 2050, with more and more people suffering from diseases such as diabetes, stroke and cancer. At the same time, indicators of the frequency of injuries and developmental disorders (for example, cerebral palsy) in children remain. These pathological conditions can negatively affect the functional capabilities of a person and contribute to an increase in disability rates, which therefore necessitates rehabilitation. In many regions of the world, the growing rehabilitation needs are largely not being met. In some low- and middle-income countries, more than half of the people who need rehabilitation services do not receive them.

Currently, great attention is paid to the development of the rehabilitation service of Kazakhstan and great importance is attached. According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in 2022, 130 thousand people received special social services, including more than 10 thousand people with disabilities received them in 32 state rehabilitation centers of the country. However, given that the total number of disabled people in the -republic exceeds 711 thousand, the creation of new rehabilitation centers is an urgent issue.

This conference highlighted important aspects of the theoretical and practical part of the work of practitioners in the field of rehabilitation, which is of great educational and practical importance.

Today marked a historic milestone for the healthcare system in Kazakhstan as the Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) celebrated the graduation of its first class of pediatricians in 17 years. This significant event saw 132 specialists receiving their diplomas, including top graduates with honors, winners of international competitions, and the best graduates of 2024.

Addressing the graduates, KazNMU Rector Marat Shoranov highlighted the challenging seven-year journey that demonstrated the dedication of both the faculty and the pioneering students of the School of Pediatrics. He praised their hard work, perseverance, and commitment, emphasizing that these qualities have led to the reinforcement of the healthcare system with newly qualified pediatricians. “This journey was not easy, but through your effort, determination, and devotion, we have reached this important milestone. This is a new chapter in the history of our university. Today, you are making history!” Rector Shoranov congratulated the graduates.

The history of KazNMU’s Pediatric Faculty dates back to 1938, making it one of the first faculties of its kind in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Over its 84-year history, it has trained more than 8,000 specialists, with graduates contributing across all sectors of the healthcare system. Currently, 1,080 students are enrolled in the Pediatrics program, continuing the legacy of excellence.

The vibrant city of Almaty buzzed with excitement as it hosted the XXV International Scientific and Practical Conference titled “Actual Problems of Clinical, Experimental Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Neurophysiology,” celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Department of Nervous Diseases at Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medial University.

The conference was a dynamic gathering where leading experts in neurology and neurosurgery shared groundbreaking presentations on various nervous system disorders and cutting-edge techniques in investigation, diagnosis, management, and prevention. This event saw a convergence of specialists from across Kazakhstan, including Almaty, Karaganda, Aktobe, Taldykorgan, Shymkent, Semey, and Astana, all coming together to tackle the pressing issues in neurology.

Adding an international flair, the conference welcomed distinguished participants from Australia, Austria, the United States, Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, Uzbekistan, New Zealand, and Germany. This global collaboration highlighted crucial health issues and fostered discussions on future strategies for growth, showcased through insightful presentations and compelling case studies from our foreign colleagues.

Attendees were engaged in several breakout sessions, delving into topics like “Rare Diseases: Improving Lives,” “Neurology in the 21st Century: Old Challenges, New Questions,” and “Neurorehabilitation and Pain Management Issues.” Additionally, a symposium focused on “Multiple Sclerosis and Current Aspects of Orphan Diseases” and “Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): From Assessing Opportunities to Obtaining Results” captivated the audience.

The conference culminated with the Young Scientists’ section, where emerging professionals, neurologists, and neurosurgeons showcased their innovative perspectives on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of nervous system disorders.

All participants, from speakers to guests, left with a renewed commitment to ongoing collaboration, eager to elevate professionalism and competence in the healthcare field.

At the Simulation Center of Asfendiyarov KazNMU, a charity event for free training for police officers and the Department of Emergency Situations of Almaty was completed. For three months, law enforcement officers and rescuers took first aid courses.

The training “School of First Aid “Golden Hour” was organized on the initiative of the Chairman of the Board and Rector of KazNMU Marat Shoranov. The purpose of the courses is to improve the training of first responders in critical situations. The rule of the “Golden Hour” is to quickly stabilize the victim’s condition and prevent the deterioration of his condition in order to provide medical care, including emergency care, to the victim as quickly and effectively as possible.

The purpose of first aid is to save the victim, that is, to eliminate the threat to his life, to prevent further damage and possible complications. The strong earthquakes that occurred in Almaty revealed the need to improve knowledge and skills in providing first emergency aid to the population. World experience shows that seismic safety of the population depends not only on the quality of the seismic service, but also on the general level of seismic education and psychological preparedness of the population, including in providing first emergency aid.

The training is conducted by employees of the Simulation Center and the Institute of Additional and Professional Education of Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University. These are certified trainers who have been trained in international organizations, in particular Israel, the USA and Russia. They are practicing physicians who have extensive clinical and teaching experience. In total, over three months, 1,300 employees of the emergency services and traffic police in Almaty completed the training. All training participants were given certificates.