Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that as part of the collaboration between Arabkir MC–ICAH and Stony Brook University Hospital (New York), the Armenian-American Symposium on Interprofessional Care of Pediatric Patients will take place on April 11, from 14:00 to 19:00, in the Arabkir conference hall. The symposium will focus on current issues in pediatric surgery, anesthesiology, and intensive care. Target audience:  Pediatric surgeons, pediatric otolaryngologists, pediatric urologists, pediatric anesthesiologists, and intensive care specialists. The program has been submitted for approval by the RA Ministry of Health. Registration is required to attend. Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAI

‼️ April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day, established by the UN General Assembly in 2007.   🔸 The aim of the day is to highlight the importance of supporting individuals with autism and autism spectrum disorders, and to help improve their quality of life. 🔸 The theme for World Autism Awareness Day 2025 is “Inclusion in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities in a Post-Pandemic World.” It emphasizes the need to create inclusive work environments where people with autism can fully demonstrate their potential and contribute to society. 🔸 “Arabkir” Medical Center, through its “ArBeS” Health Center, actively supports children with autism and their families by providing early diagnosis and professional care. Our goal is to foster inclusion from early childhood, increasing the chances that less effort will be needed later in life. We support all initiatives aimed at raising awareness about autism and improving the quality of life for people with autism, working toward a society where everyone has equal opportunities and full inclusion.

The son of our long-time Argentine-Armenian friends, Gregorio and Ofelia Tertzakian, Rodrigo Tertzakian, and his wife Vivienne, visited the “Arabkir” Medical Center with their family.   During their trip to Armenia, the Tertzakians were determined to visit “Arabkir”—a place where their parents left a lasting legacy. In the early 2000s, a meaningful friendship began between Grigor Tertzakian and Professor Ara Babloyan. That bond grew stronger over the years, and the Tertzakian family began supporting Arabkir’s pediatric programs, confident that the mission started with Ara Babloyan would lead to meaningful impact. Following Grigor Tertzakian’s passing, one of the buildings at the medical center was named in his honor. The Tertzakian family left “Arabkir” deeply moved—excited, emotional, and uplifted. They shared that what they saw filled them with strength, love for Armenia, and a desire to return.

 Purple Day is recognized as Epilepsy Awareness Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy, inspired by a letter written by Cassidy Megan, a nine-year-old girl with epilepsy, in which she shared, “I’m like everyone else, just one of them.”  Thanks to the neurology, epileptology, and neurosurgical services at the Arabkir Medical Center, we can now offer comprehensive care for both children and adults with epilepsy. Our services include diagnosis, treatment, and continuous monitoring with advanced technology, all in one place.  Our team of professionals is always by the side of patients, reaffirming the idea that epilepsy is not a sentence, but rather a condition that can be managed. With the right care and support, both patients and their families can learn to live with it.

The event held at the "Arabkir" Medical Center on the occasion of Pediatric Rheumatology Day was featured on the "Dr. David" program. You can watch the video here.

March 21 is recognized globally as World Down Syndrome Day.   The theme for 2025 is: “We call on all governments to improve our support systems.”   Worldwide, 1 in every 700 children is born with a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21 — the cause of Down syndrome and the reason for the characteristic physical traits associated with it. Although there are no precise statistics available for Armenia, in 2023, 45 children aged 0–2 were diagnosed with Down syndrome.   At the “ArBeS” Health Center of the “Arabkir” Medical Center, children with Down syndrome up to the age of 18 receive professional care from a team that includes a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, psychologist, and special educator.

The Laboratory Diagnostic Service of Arabkir Medical Center has been awarded the AST ISO 9001-2016 “Quality Management Systems: Requirements” certificate by the National Body for Standards and Metrology of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia. What does this certification mean, and why is it significant? Laboratory staff answered these questions on Public TV’s “News” program.  

A few days after World Kidney Day, we return to the topic of kidney health. Listen to Professor Ashot Sarkissian, Head of the Nephrology Service at Arabkir Medical Center, as he answers questions on the Public TV's “News” program.  

Public TV’s “News” program covered the event organized at the “Arabkir” Medical Center, dedicated to World Young Rheumatic Diseases Day.  

The Ministry of Health's team interviewed Gayane Khloyan, head of the Rheumatology service, along with children and their parents.  

On the occasion of World Young Rheumatic Diseases Day, Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan visited Arabkir Medical Center.   This format of direct interaction with children, parents, and healthcare providers aligns with the main goal of the day — to raise awareness and emphasize that, thanks to advances in medical science, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is now largely manageable. With the right treatment strategies and effective medications, challenges can be overcome, and children's quality of life can be maintained and improved.   Arabkir Medical Center has embodied these values for decades. It was with this vision that the pediatric rheumatology service was established, becoming a unique training ground for many of Armenia’s rheumatologists and offering comprehensive diagnostic, therapeutic, and long-term follow-up services.   Through the joint efforts of Arabkir Medical Center and the Ministry of Health, an important and unprecedented program has been launched: children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis now receive essential medications free of charge under a state-supported initiative — a meaningful step in supporting affected families.

On the occasion of Brain Awareness Week, Niko Arzumanyan, Head of the Neurosurgery Service at Arabkir Medical Center, spoke to Public Television’s “News” program about neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, and the modern neurosurgical treatment options available today.  

Dr. Luca Mazzone, a pediatric urologist from the University Children's Hospital Zurich, recently visited Arabkir Medical Center. Arabkir specialists, in collaboration with Dr. Mazzone and his Swiss colleague, performed a number of consultations and surgeries. This exchange of experience focused on laparoscopic pyeloplasty in children of various ages diagnosed with hydronephrosis. At Arabkir Medical Center, collaboration with leading international partners remains a core principle. We are committed to staying aligned with global advancements and ensuring that modern medical achievements are accessible to our patients. #ArabkirMC #KinderspitalZürich #ՄանկականԼապարասկոպիկՈւրոլոգիա

Dear women and girls, Wishing you a day filled with love, respect, beauty, and joy. May you feel appreciated not just today, but every day — at work, at home, with friends, and everywhere else. Health, happiness, and peace to all of you. Congratulations!

ATTENTION   Dear nurses, If you are interested in participating in the Hemodialysis Course organized by the Nursing and Therapists Excellence Center, please note that a significant discount is available for those who register by March 15. You can find more details in the announcement linked here.    

On the occasion of the spring holidays, the laboratory of "Arabkir" MC-ICAH is offering special discounts on the following tests: Vitamin D3 – 7,000 AMD (instead of 10,000 AMD) Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) – 3,500 AMD (instead of 4,500 AMD) Anti-Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) – 4,900 AMD (instead of 5,500 AMD) Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti-TG) – 4,900 AMD (instead of 5,500 AMD) Free Thyroxine (FT4) – 3,500 AMD (instead of 4,500 AMD) Triiodothyronine (T3) – 3,600 AMD (instead of 4,500 AMD) 📅 Offer valid from March 8 to April 7 📍 Yerevan, Mamikonyants 30 📞 015 400 300 (ext. 11 36) 📧 [email protected]  

The team at Ampop.am explored the topic of overweight and obesity. Marina Melkumova, the coordinator of Adolescent Health Program, spoke about the findings of research conducted by the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health at Arabkir Medical Center.

According to the World Health Organization’s European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI), 27.7% of 7–8-year-old children in Armenia are overweight, and 12.6% are obese. Among them, nearly 30% of boys and 25% of girls fall into these categories. Similar figures are reflected in Armenia’s Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey: 31% of 11-year-old boys and 17% of girls 27% of 13-year-old boys and 15% of girls 25% of 15-year-old boys and 12% of girls are either overweight or obese. This research is conducted by the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health of Arabkir Medical Center, which was designated a WHO Collaborating Center in 2024.   Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial condition caused by excessive fat accumulation, leading to serious health risks. To help prevent overweight and obesity, it is important to: Limit screen time (phones, computers, TVs) Be physically active for at least 1 hour daily Cut down on sweets Eat meals regularly Stay informed and avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and fat Maintain a consistent sleep schedule Visit your doctor regularly

One of the most important factors in the development of a child with hearing loss is the family's understanding of the condition — recognizing its challenges, exploring available solutions, and learning how to provide informed, consistent support. This final post for World Hearing Day is dedicated to parents.   A series of short informative videos has been created through a joint initiative by UNICEF Armenia and the "Havat" NGO of Mothers of Hard-of-Hearing Children — an organization that advocates for and supports families of children with hearing impairments. We encourage all parents to watch and share these valuable resources.  

On the occasion of World Hearing Day, students from the Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi visited Arabkir Medical Center to learn more about newborn hearing screening practices.

On the occasion of World Hearing Day, Arabkir shares the 2024 mission of the "Armenia: Hearing Aid" project. Since 2017, this initiative has provided invaluable support to individuals with hearing loss, including many young people affected by intense sound exposure during the 2020 war.      

On the occasion of World Hearing Day, Public Radio hosted Karine Harutyunyan, President of the “Havat” NGO and Public Relations Officer at the “Arabkir” Medical Center.  

On the occasion of Rare Diseases Day, Biayna Sukhudyan, Head of the Neurology and Epileptology Service at the Arabkir Medical Center, answered questions from Public Television's "News" program.   In Armenia, 4 newborns annually do not survive beyond 1-2 years due to the inability to swallow or breathe. This same health issue, if it manifests later in life, can lead to bone deformities and muscle weakness, rendering it impossible to move the arms and legs. Interestingly, many of these patients possess exceptional mental abilities and above-average IQ. The problem, which causes extreme disability, is genetically inherited and considered rare globally. However, in Armenia, there are currently 8 children under medical supervision with this diagnosis, according to neurologists at Arabkir Medical Center.   Biayna Sukhudyan, Head of the Neurology and Epileptology Service, shared: “Among the more common rare diseases, I would highlight Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), which has different forms depending on age and the timing of its onset. Unfortunately, genetic treatments are not available in Armenia. Unfortunately, genetic treatments are not yet available in Armenia, while they are accessible in neighboring Georgia, where this costly treatment is provided to children for free through state support.   Doctors are again raising awareness of this issue on Rare Disease Day, which is celebrated on February 29—a symbolic day that only occurs once every four years. Of the nearly 6,000 diseases considered rare, many are hereditary. In Europe and the U.S., these diseases affect about 1 in 10,000 people, while in Armenia, the incidence is higher due to factors such as small population size and higher rates of consanguinity, which increases the risk of genetic disorders. These diseases are complex, hard to diagnose, and often only partially manageable, as explained by Biayna Sukhudyan.   She added: “We currently care for over 100 patients with various genetic diseases. These include conditions such as Rett syndrome, Angelman syndrome, and others. One of the most recent cases involves Creatine Deficiency, which is treatable, and thanks to our international colleagues, this diagnosis was confirmed. The child responded dramatically to the treatment.   Dr. Sukhudyan emphasized that Armenia has made considerable progress in diagnosing rare diseases. While genetic testing is expensive, it provides not only accurate diagnoses but also helps determine which anticonvulsant medications are most effective for epilepsy. Regarding hereditary issues, specialists advise that if a complex disease affects a firstborn child or extends to the extended family, parents should consider modern medical options like family planning instead of divorcing.   She explained: “Through in vitro fertilization, which is available in Armenia today, we can select zygotes that do not carry the disease. These healthy zygotes are then implanted in the mother’s womb, resulting in a healthy child.”   Being informed and supported is crucial for addressing these challenges. The most frequent message on Rare Disease Day is: “You are rare, but you are not alone.”  

The last day of winter is recognized as Rare Diseases Day. On this occasion, we introduce you to a rare and inspiring individual – our dear colleague and patient, Anushik. Thanks to her efforts, the website of Arabkir Medical Center is now accessible to Russian-speaking individuals.   Thank you, dear Anush! Watch the Voice of America video about Anush here:  

Dear nurses, don't miss the chance for professional development with the Nursing and Therapists Excellence Center.   Register by March 10 to get a special price!

Tamara Chagharyan, a pediatrician at Arabkir Medical Center, discusses iron deficiency anemia in children as part of #OPENFamilyEducation. Listen and stay informed about the signs and symptoms of anemia. Stay tuned for the next video to learn what to do in such cases.

In response to some inaccurate and unverified information regarding the Republican Pediatric Pathoanatomical Center at the "Arabkir" Medical Center, the management of the center would like to clarify that pediatric cases are completely free of charge at the Pathoanatomical Center. Additionally, no pediatric funeral or burial ceremonies have been held in the funeral hall at the center to date. 

35 years, 39 programs, thousands of children's lives saved and restored, the ever-present Hippocratic Oath, religion, faith, and medicine, numerous awards and certificates of honor, and a lasting friendship and partnership with Charles Aznavour. These are just a few of the highlights discussed in the Public TV's "Do Not Politicize" program series, where Professor Ara Babloyan shared his insights on the current issues of adolescent health and his approach to staying healthy and maintaining well-being.

ATTENTION! The Nursing and Therapists Excellence Center has announced a list of upcoming courses by topic. Dear nurses, we invite you to explore these courses and take part in them. The program, developed by Arabkir Medical Center in collaboration with Swiss partners, is designed to support your professional growth and open new opportunities in your career.

What should you do if you notice blood in your child's stool?   Learn about the possible causes and the necessary steps to take in such cases. Pediatrician Lia Andreasyan from Arabkir Medical Center explains the topic as part of #OpenFamilyEducation.

The Diagnostic Imaging service is a vital part of “Arabkir” Medical Center. The examinations conducted here play a crucial role in diagnosing various diseases, monitoring treatment progress, and, when needed, evaluating the effectiveness of surgeries.   For appointments, please call 010 23 30 30 or 010 23 20 20.

What is hand-foot-mouth disease, how does it manifest, what consequences can it lead to, and how can it be prevented? Astghik Mirzakhanyan, a pediatrician at Arabkir Medical Center, provides insights on these important questions as part of the #OpenFamilyEducation program.