On April 25, 2025, Astana hosted an important event for domestic and international healthcare — the opening of a new building of the National Scientific Oncology Center (NSOC). As part of the opening, a conference was held with the participation of experts and doctors from more than 30 countries with the support of Astana Tourism. Advanced diagnostic and treatment methods, digitalization in healthcare, translational research and the implementation of innovative solutions were discussed. The conference and the launch of the new center became an important step in the development of medical tourism and strengthening Astana's status as a key medical hub in Central Asia.
The event brought together leading oncologists, researchers and specialists from around the world, becoming a significant platform for exchanging experiences and developing joint approaches to combating cancer. The opening ceremony was attended by Presidential Aide Tamara Duisenova, Presidential Advisor on Science and Innovation Kunsulu Zakaria, Minister of Health Akmaral Alnazarova and other officials.
The new building of the NNOC has become the embodiment of modern engineering and medical solutions. The total area of the center is 60,000 square meters, it is designed for 210 beds and includes a clinic with the ability to receive up to 500 patients per day. The center is equipped with high-tech equipment from global manufacturers Varian, Philips and Siemens. Such advanced techniques as Varian ProBeam proton therapy, hybrid PET / MRI and PET / CT imaging, EDGE, TrueBeam STx, Ethos, BRAVOS radiation therapy systems and unique radionuclide therapy technologies have been implemented here. The structure of the institution includes a department with eight specialized wards and its own cyclotron production complex capable of producing 11 types of radiopharmaceuticals, 7 of which will be synthesized in Kazakhstan for the first time. The Minister of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan emphasized that the project was implemented with the support of the President and the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and was the result of the coordinated work of the medical community and international partners. The center will cover up to 70% of patients in need of radiological care, in full compliance with IAEA recommendations and global standards. The NNRC will pay special attention to pediatric oncology and the development of personalized treatment methods.
In the welcoming speech of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov, read out during the ceremony, the priority of healthcare for the state was emphasized. In 2024, 3.3 trillion tenge were allocated for the development of the industry, and over the past six years, 955 medical facilities have been built, including the new NNRC building. Thanks to the expansion of screening programs, 2.5 million people were examined last year alone, which contributed to an increase in life expectancy from 73 to 75 years.
According to Tamara Duisenova, Kazakhstan follows global trends in oncology, actively introducing nuclear and proton therapy, molecular genetic diagnostics, artificial intelligence and multidisciplinary approaches. The scale of oncological diseases requires consolidation of efforts and constant exchange of knowledge at the international level. The new oncology center in Astana will become not only an important clinical and scientific institution, but also a point of attraction for advanced experience, technologies and professional growth. The international conference will continue on April 26 and will provide an opportunity for specialists from all over the world to discuss key challenges, share practices and form unified approaches to combating oncological diseases.