Air alert: What to Do and What to Watch For Arabkir Medical Center conducted an evacuation training exercise aimed at improving staff preparedness and rapid response in the event of an air disaster.During the exercise, the medical staff acted in a coordinated and organized manner, ensuring the safety of patients throughout the evacuation process. Such training is essential for maintaining readiness and enabling medical personnel to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.

Today is World Down Syndrome Day. Approximately one in every 700–800 newborns worldwide is born with Down syndrome, a genetic condition that affects a child’s development as well as certain physical and cognitive characteristics.World Down Syndrome Day was established by the World Health Organization in 2012 to raise awareness about the condition and promote the rights and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Children with Down syndrome are often affectionately referred to as “sunshine children.” The ArBeS Health Center has been engaged for many years in the assessment and rehabilitation therapy of children with Down syndrome, providing specialized care and support.

The pediatric healthcare system in Armenia is on the verge of significant changes: strengthening primary care, decentralizing services to the regions, introducing the latest medical technologies, and expanding international cooperation.In an interview with Armenpress, Ara Babloyan, pediatrician, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Scientific Director of Arabkir Medical Center, discussed the sector’s development priorities, the Center’s achievements over the past year, and the challenges currently facing pediatric healthcare. — Mr. Babloyan, how would you assess the past year for the Center, and what were its most significant achievements?— Arabkir Medical Center is a dynamically developing institution, and our work should be viewed as a continuous process. We constantly review the functions we perform, striving to improve and further develop them, bringing our services to a higher level. Our activities have several main directions. The first is the provision of daily medical services, including pediatrics, pediatric surgery, otorhinolaryngology (ENT), orthopedics, and other specialties. These services form the foundation of the system. At the same time, we are actively developing highly specialized fields where we have achieved particularly strong results. In pediatric neurology and neurosurgery, for example, Arabkir has become a leader not only in Armenia but also in the region. We treat patients from abroad, especially from Central Asia, who come to our Center for effective care. The field of epilepsy is especially important for us. We currently have more than 4,000 patients under our care, which is a considerable number for Armenia. Treatment is primarily medication-based; however, when this approach proves ineffective, we turn to surgical methods. In this area, we have gone through several stages of development—from traditional open surgeries to the introduction of stereotactic techniques. These methods make it possible to identify the source of the problem within a few days and perform radiofrequency ablation without open surgery. Currently, we are also introducing deep brain stimulation, representing a new stage in the development of epilepsy treatment. Read the full interview on the Armenpress website.

Life goes on… A woman who received a kidney transplant has become a mother. After undergoing a kidney transplant at Arabkir Medical Center, Arpi not only regained her health but also fulfilled her greatest dream of becoming a parent. The kidney donor was her husband.

Today is World Juvenile Arthritis Day. To raise public awareness about this condition, Gayane Khloyan, Head of the Rheumatology Service at Arabkir Medical Center, answers common questions that concern parents.What is juvenile arthritis?Juvenile arthritis is a chronic inflammation of the joints that occurs in children under the age of 18. In most cases, the exact cause of the disease remains unknown.What are the initial symptoms? How can a parent recognize the problem? The initial symptoms may vary. However, the most common signs are swelling and pain in a joint. Children may not always be able to clearly describe what they are feeling or indicate which part of the body hurts.Parents may notice that the child holds one leg, avoids walking, or begins to limp. Careful observation is important to identify the cause of these symptoms. In addition to joint inflammation, other symptoms may appear, such as general weakness, fever, and sometimes a rash. Is this a hereditary disease? Juvenile arthritis is not considered a hereditary disease. However, there may be a certain genetic predisposition. What are the possible consequences if the disease is not treated? Delayed or absent treatment can lead to disability. Starting treatment at an early stage significantly improves the child’s quality of life and allows them to live a normal, active life. Your advice to parents At first, parents may find it difficult to accept the presence of a chronic disease. However, there are many ways to help children manage this condition. It is very important for parents to cooperate closely with the doctor. The physician cannot manage the disease alone, since the child spends most of the time at home under parental supervision. Effective care requires teamwork involving the family, the child, the physician, and the rheumatologist, as well as other specialists such as an orthopedist, an ophthalmologist, and a rehabilitation specialist.

Niko Arzumanyan, Head of the Neurosurgical Service at Arabkir Medical Center, presents modern approaches to the surgical treatment of Parkinson's disease, focusing on Deep Brain Stimulation — an advanced neurosurgical method used to manage movement disorders.

The Armenian representative office of the International Respiratory Coalition has begun operating in Armenia. The announcement was made on March 10 during the forum titled “The Future of Respiratory Medicine.” The event was organized by the Armenian Pediatric Association, the Association of Pulmonologists, and the Armenian Cystic Fibrosis Family Community, with the support of the Health Fund for Children of Armenia.The international coalition aims to support the development of a national respiratory health strategy, strengthen cooperation between pediatric and adult healthcare services, promote evidence-based policies, and raise public awareness about respiratory health.

Arabkir Medical Center has successfully passed certification for compliance with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018 international standards, confirming the implementation and effective functioning of the Quality Management System and the Occupational Safety and Health Management System. Highlighting this achievement, Arman Babloyan, Director of Arabkir Medical Center, expressed his gratitude to all those whose consistent work and effective cooperation made this success possible. “This is a great responsibility, which, we assure you, we will continue to carry out with dignity,” said A. Babloyan. According to Gagik Makaryan, a quality management expert, Arabkir Medical Center, as a medical service provider, stands out for its high standards of quality both in Armenia and internationally. As a certified organization meeting high quality management standards, Arabkir Medical Center has been registered in the international register. Hermine Nersisyan, Head of the Quality Management and Assurance Department of the Medical Center, noted:  “The quality management system is dynamic; therefore, it requires us to build on our existing achievements through consistent daily work in order to further improve the system.” This important achievement clearly demonstrates that Arabkir Medical Center stands out for its high quality standards, responsible work, and leading position in the field of medical services.

Today is World Kidney Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of March around the world. Kidney health plays an essential role in maintaining overall well-being. Specialists recommend consulting a physician in a timely manner and undergoing the necessary examinations to detect potential problems at an early stage. Stay informed and take care of your health.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, from March 8 to April 7, laboratory tests for vitamin D and hormones will be available with discounts of up to 40%. Timely laboratory testing plays a key role in the early detection of diseases and helps prevent possible complications.

The Association of Pulmonologists, the Armenian Pediatric Association, and the Armenian Cystic Fibrosis Family Community, with the support of the Health Fund for Children of Armenia, organized a forum titled “The Future of Respiratory Medicine.” During the forum, the official establishment of the Armenian representative office of the International Respiratory Coalition will be announced. The initiative aims to support the development of a national respiratory health strategy, promote evidence-based policy, strengthen cooperation between pediatric and adult healthcare services, and raise public awareness. The forum will also address the prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of respiratory diseases.Key topics of discussionChildren’s respiratory health and preventionThe growing risks of smoking and e-cigarette use among young peopleThe impact of environmental factors on lung healthRecent achievements in respiratory medicineOpportunities for professional and sectoral cooperation📅 Date: March 10, 2026 🕒 Time: 14:00 📍 Venue: Armenia Marriott Hotel — Ararat Hall

Obesity is one of the most significant health challenges of our time. Arabkir Medical Center provides Weight Control Service for School-Age Children and Adolescents. A multidisciplinary team of specialists thoroughly analyzes the causes of excess weight, provides comprehensive consultations, and ensures continuous medical monitoring.

Another meeting of participants of the Annual Winter School of Neurology took place, during which important and topical issues in the field of pediatrics were discussed. Over the past 15 years, the program has steadily expanded, bringing together dozens of specialists interested in neurology and creating a strong platform for professional cooperation and knowledge exchange. Although the program was initially designed for third-year pediatric residents, today experienced pediatricians also participate in the winter school, contributing to the exchange of professional experience. The main goal of the school is the in-depth study of neurological disorders in pediatrics and the transfer of knowledge and expertise to young physicians. Arabkir Medical Center — A Reliable Partner in Health

With the ongoing development of diagnostic services in Armenia, it may sometimes appear that the number of various diseases is rapidly increasing. In reality, improved technologies now allow conditions to be detected more frequently and at earlier stages. The belief that X-rays or other radiological examinations can accelerate the development of disease is a myth. Marine Grigoryan, Head of the Diagnostic Imaging Service at Arabkir Medical Center, addressed this issue in an interview with Sputnik Armenia. According to her, when appropriate medical standards and dosage protocols are followed, such risks are unfounded. “X-rays are a form of radiation that the human body is naturally exposed to in everyday life. For example, a person may receive a higher dose of radiation during a single airplane flight than from one diagnostic examination. Therefore, the idea that a properly administered X-ray dose can cause or accelerate disease is a misconception,” she noted.

Today marks World Epilepsy Day. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures and affects more than 60 million people worldwide. The conference “Epilepsy: Out of the Shadows” was organized through the joint efforts of the Arabkir Medical Center and the “Way of Life” Charitable Foundation. The event addressed key issues related to medical care, educational support, and the social integration of children living with epilepsy. The conference brought together healthcare professionals, representatives of state institutions, educators, patients and their families, journalists, and individuals concerned with advancing epilepsy care in Armenia. “I would like to proudly note that the number of surgical interventions for children has reached nearly 100,” said Ara Babloyan, Scientific Director of the Arabkir Medical Center. “A child who previously traveled to Kazakhstan for surgery and experienced daily seizures is now seizure-free.” Anahit Avanesyan, Minister of Health of the Republic of Armenia, emphasized:  “We provide medication to every child in need, but we will not stop there. We are committed to ensuring stable outcomes through modern technological solutions. These services are costly, but for us, the life and full development of every child are invaluable.” The conference was also attended by Biayna Sukhudyan, Head of the Neurology and Epileptology Service of the Arabkir Medical Center; Elena Baghdasaryan, Head of the Way of Life Charitable Foundation; Lilit Mnatsakanyan, Director of the Republican Pedagogical-Psychological Center of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports; Nune Pashayan, Head of the Department of Maternal and Child Health Protection at the Ministry of Health; and Marine Harutyunyan, Head of the Department of Drug Policy and Medical Technologies at the Ministry of Health. During the conference, specialists presented recent achievements in epileptology and modern treatment approaches. Events of this kind play a crucial role in raising awareness, strengthening interdisciplinary cooperation, and advancing solutions to improve the quality of life for vulnerable groups, including children living with epilepsy.

On February 7, from 10:00 to 15:00, a conference “Epilepsy: Out of the Shadows” will be held at the American University of Armenia (40 Marshall Baghramyan Ave.).The event aims to bring together specialists, parents, and key stakeholders to openly discuss epilepsy, raise public awareness, and collaboratively explore solutions to improve the quality of life for children living with this condition.

Nineteen-year-old Rubik and his six-year-old sister Eva have never walked. Rubik has not even been able to sit upright for more than a year. Weighing only 15 kilograms, he spends all day in the same position due to severe muscle deformities. Day and night, Rubik relies on a special oxygen device to breathe. Both siblings live with a rare genetic condition — spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The family’s greatest hope is that SMA medication will become accessible not only for Eva but also for Rubik, to help stabilize his breathing and slow the progression of the disease that continues to worsen daily. Source: Sputnik Armenia

In October 2025, the Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology Section was established within the Armenian Pediatric Association, bringing together pediatric gastroenterologists, endoscopists, and hepatologists from across the country. The subdivision currently unites 17 specialists.Professor Gayane Amaryan, Head of the Gastroenterology service of the Arabkir MC-ICAH , who initiated the creation of the section, noted, that the primary goals are to consolidate professional expertise to improve the quality of pediatric gastroenterological care, develop clinical, research, and educational programs, expand cooperation with International gastroenterology organizations (including ESPGHAN, NASPGHAN, and UEG), and strengthen collaboration with the Association of Adult Gastroenterologists of Armenia.The Pediatric Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir MC–ICAH has maintained active cooperation with ESPGHAN for many years. This collaboration includes participation in Annual international conferences, support for ESPGHAN initiatives in Armenia, and the implementation of educational programs. Notably, ESPGHAN Eastern Summer Schools were organized in Yerevan in 2007 and 2017. GE service has also collaborated for 15 years with Professor Christian Braegger, a long-standing member of the ESPGHAN and the head of the Center for Gastroenterology and Nutrition Research at the Zurich Children's Hospital, who actively supports clinical practice and medical education in Gastroenterology at the center.It should be noted that the Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir Medical Center currently provides long-term follow-up for more than 500 children with chronic gastroenterological and hepatological conditions up to the age of 18. After this age, patients require continued monitoring by adult specialists to prevent complications and improve quality of life. The proper organization of this transition period represents a significant healthcare challenge worldwide and requires coordinated involvement of both pediatric and adult gastroenterologists.This issue is directly addressed by the “Health Care Transition” campaign launched by ESPGHAN in October 2025, in which the Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir MC is actively involved. The campaign’s slogan, “The transition process is not an ordinary transfer,” highlights the importance of a structured and patient-centered approach.As part of the campaign, the first stage was completed in November 2025, during which ESPGHAN educational materials were supplemented and translated into Armenian. As part of the second stage, in December 2025, the first meeting of gastroenterologists from the four Pediatric and the five Adult tertiary-level medical centers was organized by the Pediatric Gastroenterology Section and Armenian Pediatric Association.During the meeting, the translated ESPGHAN materials were presented, and discussions focused on their implementation in Armenia, localization challenges, and existing barriers in the transition process. Summarizing the event, Gayane Amaryan, Head of the Gastroenterology Service of the Arabkir MC, emphasized the importance of active participation and distributing the ESPGHAN translated resources by specialists and expressed hope that the ESPGHAN-initiated Health Care Transition process will continue to develop gradually and systematically in Armenia.

Pediatrician Mary Marandyan of the Arabkir Medical Center was a guest on the Public Television Company’s “Be Healthy” program.

Astghik Baghdasaryan, Head of the Respiratory Medicine and Allergology-Immunology Service at the Arabkir Medical Center, spoke about the nature of allergies and their triggers as part of the Public Television Company’s “Be Healthy” program.

It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that we learned of the sudden passing of YSMU Honorary Professor Artavazd Bagrat Sahakyan, at the age of 72. Professor Sahakyan was one of our most esteemed colleagues and a true friend of the Arabkir Medical Center. Over the years, we jointly implemented numerous programs and complex surgeries, including lifesaving liver transplants in children. He was a beloved physician, a highly skilled specialist, a loyal and irreplaceable friend, and an honest and principled intellectual. He was a remarkable human being who undoubtedly still had many unfulfilled aspirations, both professionally and personally. The Scientific Director of Arabkir Medical Center, Ara Babloyan, the Director, Arman Babloyan, and the entire medical staff extend their deepest condolences to his family, relatives, colleagues, friends, and to all who knew and valued his exceptional work. The memory of a distinguished and dedicated doctor, a kind and sincere friend, and a bright, warm-hearted individual will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.

The United Nations General Assembly declared December 3 as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992. The aim of this day is to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and to promote the protection of their rights. Let us work together to build a society in which every person with a disability can overcome daily challenges with ease and feel fully included as a valued member of the community.

Many parents give vitamin supplements to their children without consulting a physician, assuming these products are entirely harmless. However, appropriate use requires professional guidance. Astghik Mirzakhanyan, pediatrician at the Arabkir Medical Center, spoke with News about the correct use of vitamins, their real benefits, and the potential risks associated with unsupervised supplementation.

Today is International Neurologist Day. We extend our warmest congratulations to our colleagues, wishing you continued success, professional growth, and good health. Your dedication brings hope and reassurance to countless patients and families. Neurology, as an independent medical specialty, emerged in the 1960s and has since undergone a complex and highly responsible path of development.Since 2023, the Neurology and Epileptology Service of the Arabkir Medical Center has been performing stereo-EEG examinations, an advanced method used to precisely localize epileptic foci. The medical center also conducts both long-term and short-term video-EEG monitoring.

A first aid training course was conducted at the Arabkir Medical Center as part of the Safe Heart Yerevan program. The initiative aims to ensure that individuals experiencing cardiac arrest in Yerevan receive immediate first aid before the ambulance arrives. Participants of the course become registered volunteers of the program. This means that, in the event of an emergency within the central area of Yerevan, volunteers receive an alert through a dedicated mobile application and, if able, proceed to the scene to provide assistance. Volunteers also have access to nearby pre-installed automated external defibrillators (AEDs), enabling them to deliver life-saving intervention as quickly as possible.

One of the most pressing global health challenges today is the inappropriate and uncontrolled use of antibiotics. Astghik Baghdasaryan, Head of the Respiratory Medicine and Allergology–Immunology Service at Arabkir Medical Center, emphasizes the severity of the issue: “It is true that humanity has antimicrobial medication, but today we are facing an extremely serious danger: it is becoming possible that a person may no longer be able to protect themselves from even the simplest bacterial infection—and may die.”

Although International Pediatrician’s Day is not an officially recognized holiday, it is celebrated all over the world. It is linked to World Children’s Day, which is observed annually on November 20. Sixty-six years ago on this day, the United Nations adopted the Declaration on the Rights of the Child.Pediatrics is one of the cornerstones of the Arabkir Medical Center. Dear pediatricians, we sincerely congratulate you on your professional holiday. Your unwavering dedication, care, and warmth are invaluable in protecting children’s health and advancing the field. Thank you for your important and irreplaceable work.

By using the SWYC scoring cheat sheets, pediatricians can identify developmental concerns early and effectively monitor a child’s healthy growth. The program has been piloted in three primary care pediatric institutions in Armenia, where hundreds of children have already been assessed with this tool. The new screening method has been positively received by both doctors and parents.

Since 2007, the birthday of the Canadian scientist who first used insulin to save the life of a 14-year-old boy has been marked as World Diabetes Day. Many questions still concern the public about this widespread condition. Irina Marutyan, Head of the Endocrinology Service at the Arabkir Medical Center, addressed several common concerns. Is fruit sugar as harmful as white sugar? No. White sugar is more harmful, as fruit sugar is primarily fructose. When consumed in moderation and at appropriate times according to insulin activity, its negative effects are significantly reduced. Is it true that diabetes occurs only in overweight individuals? No. Diabetes has two main types. Type 1 diabetes, which develops in childhood, is an autoimmune condition and is not caused by excess weight—though maintaining a healthy weight is still desirable. In contrast, excess body weight does increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes cannot be cured, but can it be fully controlled? Yes. While not curable, diabetes can be effectively and completely controlled with proper management. Does stress raise blood sugar? In people with diabetes, stress can elevate blood glucose levels and negatively affect the course of the disease. Endocrinologist Irina Marutyan encourages everyone to monitor body weight, stay physically active, and maintain healthy eating habits. Early diagnosis greatly improves disease management. Diabetes is not a disease—it is a lifestyle.

Sergey Babloyan, urologist-surgeon at the Arabkir Medical Center, was a guest on the “Lav Bjishk” (“Good Doctor”) podcast, where he spoke about his decision to become a doctor, his first surgery, the influence of his father, Professor Ara Babloyan, kidney transplantation, and the balance between life and work.

To raise public awareness about pneumonia, Gevorg Boyajyan, Head of the Pulmonology and Pediatrics Department of the Arabkir Medical Center, answers common questions asked by parents.Does pneumonia occur only in winter? No. Severe cases of pneumonia can also occur in summer — and in some cases, may even be more severe than those seen in winter.Do children with pneumonia always have a fever? One of the main signs of pneumonia is a high fever lasting three days or more. In 97% of cases, an elevated temperature is present. The belief that a temperature of 37.2°C is “a pneumonia temperature” is incorrect.Is treatment less effective when managed at home? According to international guidelines, many children can be safely and effectively treated for pneumonia at home, as long as they do not have any signs of severe illness.Does vaccination fully protect against pneumonia? Pneumococcal vaccination significantly reduces the likelihood of developing pneumonia and also makes the disease milder if a child does become ill.Is pneumonia a contagious disease? The contagiousness of pneumonia is very low.To reduce the risk of the disease, Dr. Boyajyan emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, timely vaccination, and dressing children appropriately to avoid overheating. He also highlights the role of proper nutrition and strongly advises against smoking in the presence of a child. Cigarette smoke damages a child’s airways, making them more susceptible to infections.

On October 19–25, 2025, an international seminar on pediatric radiology was held in Salzburg, Austria — an event that takes place once every four years. Marine Grigoryan, Head of the Diagnostic Imaging Service at Arabkir Medical Center, and radiologist Ani Sargsyan presented to the international medical community rare congenital pathologies encountered in their practice — cases so uncommon that they occur in only one person out of a million. The professional team of Arabkir Medical Center shared their analyses and experience in diagnosing and managing such rare conditions. During the seminar, Marine Grigoryan was awarded a Certificate of Professional Excellence by the Open Medical Institute. “This is the result of teamwork,” noted Marine Grigoryan. “The support and encouragement of the team play a major role in the professional growth and development of each individual. This success once again proves that we should never stop at what we’ve achieved — we must continue learning, improving, and seizing every opportunity to gain new knowledge in service of children’s health.” The achievements recognized on international platforms demonstrate that pediatric medicine in Armenia continues to develop in line with global scientific standards.