Pediatric Oncology Department

The diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancer and blood diseases in Armenia are centralized at the “Yeolyan” Hematology and Oncology Center, operating under the Ministry of Health. On February 7, 2019, by a decision of the Government of Armenia, all existing pediatric oncology and hematology units in the country were unified, leading to the establishment of the Pediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Armenia. This centralization brought together the country’s leading specialists, improved the standard of care, and ensured that children receive modern, comprehensive medical services in a single dedicated center. In August 2019, with the support of the “City of Smile” Foundation, four multidisciplinary working groups were established within the Center, each focusing on specific areas of pediatric cancer: 

• leukemias
• lymphomas 
• solid tumors
• musculoskeletal tumors
• neuro-oncology
• stem cell transplantation.

The medical services provided by the department cover a wide range of conditions, including:

• Lymphomas
• Central nervous system tumors
• Neuroblastoma
• Various types of sarcomas
• Other malignant pediatric tumors

In addition, the team diagnoses, monitors, and treats vascular tumors and malformations.

With the involvement of international experts, the multidisciplinary teams have developed and translated national clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric cancers and blood disorders. Regular multidisciplinary case discussions are held, fostering the exchange of knowledge and the implementation of research initiatives aligned with international standards. Collaboration with leading international centers continues today, ensuring that Armenia’s pediatric oncology services apply the latest and most effective treatment approaches.

Every week, specialized multidisciplinary meetings are organized for central nervous system tumors, musculoskeletal sarcomas as part of the Global Neuroblastoma Network (GNN), where complex cases are reviewed with the participation of renowned international specialists.

The pediatric oncology field in Armenia also includes a strong educational and research component. In 2019, the first Chair of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology was established at Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU). The academic program was developed based on guidelines from leading U.S. medical institutions, ensuring the training of specialists in line with international standards.

Armenian physicians also continue to receive advanced training abroad, including at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the United States (Armenia was the first country worldwide to join the St. Jude Global Alliance in 2019), as well as at top medical centers in Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom, and other countries. These opportunities help enhance professional skills, promote the exchange of experience, and implement up-to-date clinical and organizational practices in Armenia.