Yerevan. February 10, 2019
We can definitely say that February was a very significant month for us because of multiple events and happenings devoted to the fight against cancer. One of the most essential events was the second scientific meeting of Pediatric Oncology East and Mediterranean Group (POEM) that took place on February 7 to 10 in Armenia. Representatives of over 40 countries – renowned doctors and physicians famous for their contribution in child cancer care gathered under one roof in Armenia in the frames of this event.
The opening ceremony of the event was held at “Mergelyan Carpet” on February 6. The guests were greeted by the spouse of the Prime Minster of Armenia and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of City of Smile Foundation Mrs. Anna Hakobyan and by the rector of Yerevan State Medical University Mr. Armen Muradyan. The head of R.H. Yolyan Hematology Center Mr. Samvel Danielyan as well as other participants of the scientific meeting also spoke and made presentations on pediatric oncology issues, statistics and development.
An important part of cultural program was the walk around the museum of carpets where guests were introduced to the history of Armenian carpets’ creation as well as witness actual process of carpet making. Annother fascinating discovery for participants was to experience traditional lavash making process.
City of Smile Charitable Foundation highly values the importance of the such events both for oncology development in Armenia as well as for the country in general. Sharing of knowledge and experience with such renowned doctors and institutions will definitely have a huge impact on the improvement of cure rates of children. City of Smile Foundation was among the organizers and supporters of this event. During the event special “City of Smile” awards were given to some participants for their contribution in the research and development of pediatric oncology.
Before the actual conference began, there were several workshops conducted in Yerevan State Medical University on February 8th. One of the main workshops was devoted to discussion of issues of palliative care. Exchange of knowledge and experience among physicians and organizations will undoubtedly favor the improvement of cancer treatment results. On February 9th and 10th the main conference sessions took place.
The Pediatric Oncology East and Mediterranean Group second scientific meeting was organized by Yerevan State Medical University. Among co-organizers were St Jude Children’s Research Hospital (USA) the largest pediatric cancer center, and American University of Beirut (Lebanon). This was the first large pediatric cancer event ever organized in Armenia, which will definitely have its significant impact on the development of this field of medicine.
