On February 4, Almaty hosted a powerful and deeply human-centered World Cancer Day charity evening. More than a formal observance, the event became a space for honest dialogue about health, early diagnosis, and the technologies that could save thousands of lives, DKNews.kz reports.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
The evening was organized by the Together Against Cancer Public Foundation, Kazakhstan Cancer Society, and prohealth.kz. Its core message was simple but urgent: early detection saves lives.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
Breaking the Silence
Doctors, patients, business leaders, diplomats, NGO representatives, and journalists gathered under one roof. Yet the atmosphere was far from bureaucratic. It was warm, personal, and courageous. Cancer was discussed openly - without fear, without stigma, and without euphemisms.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
One of the keynote speakers was oncologist and author Kuantkan Zhabagin, known for his book Oncologist Without a White Coat. Rather than delivering a clinical lecture, he spoke as both a physician and a human being. In clear and accessible language, he explained complex medical processes, dispelled common myths, and reminded the audience of one essential truth - time is everything when it comes to cancer.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
One of the most moving moments of the evening was a runway presentation featuring women who are currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer or have completed their recovery journey. It was not about fashion. It was a statement - about strength, dignity, acceptance, and the right to live a full life.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
Art, Charity, and the Technology of the Future
The venue also featured an exhibition of portraits of women affected by cancer, alongside drawings created by children diagnosed with oncological diseases. The children’s artwork became part of a charity auction, with all proceeds directed toward the development and implementation of Ophtascan, an innovative early detection technology.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
Ophtascan is powered by artificial intelligence and is capable of identifying cancer risks with more than 95 percent accuracy. It screens for several types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate, cervical, and uterine cancers. Crucially, the technology focuses on detecting disease at its earliest stages - when timely diagnosis has a direct impact on treatment effectiveness and survival rates.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
The shift is significant. Instead of reacting to advanced disease, the goal is prevention and proactive intervention.
As part of the program, five genetic cancer risk screening tests provided by Berkata were raffled off. Each test is valued at 500,000 tenge and allows screening for ten different cancer localizations through a single blood analysis. Five guests of the charity evening were given the opportunity to undergo testing free of charge.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
A Platform for Meaningful Dialogue
The evening seamlessly combined speeches, art, and philanthropy, creating a respectful and thoughtful environment focused on awareness and action.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
“Our goal is not simply to talk about the problem, but to create real tools for change. The development of modern diagnostics is an investment in people’s lives and in the future of the healthcare system,” said Didyara Radikovna Kaidarova, President of Kazakhstan Cancer Society.
Her words captured the spirit of the event. The conversation was not only about individual stories, but about systemic transformation.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
The event was made possible thanks to partners who share the values of social responsibility and proactive health awareness. The project was supported by the Karaganda Pharmaceutical Complex, the international audit firm Russell Bedford A+ Partners, the Cesna brand, and Berkata.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
The aesthetic atmosphere of the evening was enhanced by Kazakh designer Aida Kaumenova, whose elegant creations added depth and symbolism to the event. Creative designer Airat Nadrov designed the event’s photo zone. Organizers also expressed gratitude to Hotel Kazakhstan for hosting the venue, as well as to Azza Gastronom, Kaktus.kz, and the brands Avon, Geltek, Londa, Vivienne Sabo, Lumene, and Limba for their support.
photo by Evgeny Morozov
The Most Important Thing - Do Not Stay Silent
World Cancer Day in Almaty served as a powerful reminder: conversations about health must happen before it is too late. Openly. Honestly. Without fear.
Early detection is not just a medical term. It is an opportunity. And sometimes, it is the difference between life and loss.
