LAUSR

Background and context: Breast cancer takes the first place among the cancer diseases in the Kyrgyz Republic. Almost 40% of breast cancer cases are detected in the advanced III and IV stages. Specialized oncology services for cancer patients are available in two oncology centers in the Kyrgyz Republic. One is in Bishkek (capital of the country), and another is in Osh (the second large city). However, medical services provided by the government are limited to the surgery, particularly, with mastectomy. Radiotherapy is not available because of deterioration and breakdown of equipment. Mandatory Health Insurance Fund does not cover chemotherapy cost for cancer patients, and patients pay out of pocket. Kyrgyz National Essential Drug List does not include many vital antineoplastic agents recommended by WHO. The absence of essential antineoplastic agents in National Essential Drug List negatively affects medicine registration and procurement, makes them unavailable, inaccessible and unaffordable in Kyrgyzstan. ...