Kazakhstan expands cancer screening coverage to 41.7% as precision oncology capacity grows
Kazakhstan is enhancing its capabilities in cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, with screening coverage now reaching 41.7%. This expansion is part of the nation's 2023–2027 Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, which emphasizes the greater utilization of advanced medical technologies such as PET/CT scans, immunohistochemical testing, radiation therapy, and proton therapy, as reported by the Ministry of Healthcare.
In the initial six months of 2026, healthcare providers across Kazakhstan conducted 17,400 PET/CT scans, marking a 21.6% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2025. This surge in PET/CT imaging is a key component of the country's strategy to broaden access to highly accurate cancer diagnostics.
The volume of immunohistochemical tests has also seen a significant rise. The ministry indicated that 65,100 tests were performed in 2025, a substantial increase from 33,600 in 2024. These tests are crucial for characterizing tumors and guiding treatment decisions. Cancer screening coverage improved from 37.6% to 41.7% during the first half of 2026, a development aimed at boosting early detection and ensuring patients can access subsequent diagnostic and treatment services.
Kazakhstan has also made substantial investments in equipment for its regional oncology services. In 2025, oncology centers in most regions received modern medical equipment valued at over KZT 27 billion (approximately $60 million). Further expansion of diagnostic infrastructure is slated for completion by the end of 2026, including the establishment of the country's inaugural high-precision diagnostic reference centers and the opening of a new PET/CT center in the Karaganda region. Additional equipment deliveries to regional healthcare facilities are also anticipated.
The Ministry of Healthcare stated, "The main goal is to shorten the patient's journey from early detection to accurate diagnosis and timely modern treatment, while ensuring access to medical technologies regardless of where they live."
Access to advanced radiation therapy has also grown, with coverage now at 65%, according to the Ministry of Healthcare. The inauguration of a new facility at the National Scientific Oncology Center introduced proton therapy to Kazakhstan for the first time, and this technology has since been integrated into the center's cancer treatment offerings.
During the first half of 2026, 3,897 proton therapy procedures were performed. Concurrently, healthcare facilities conducted 9,239 radiation therapy sessions.
The government intends to continue enhancing oncology infrastructure throughout the remainder of 2026. Planned initiatives include the launch of the nation's first high-precision diagnostic reference centers and the opening of an additional PET/CT facility in the Karaganda region.