Intensely Visiting Nail Technicians, But Not Doctors: Deputy Director of the National Oncology Center

Like many countries around the world, Armenia is also witnessing a rise in oncological diseases and a trend towards their younger onset. During a press conference, Arthur Avetisyan, deputy director of the V.A. Fanarjyan National Oncology Center and oncologist-surgeon, noted that breast cancer is the most common among women in Armenia, while lung cancer is prevalent among men. In both cases, more than 1,300 new cases are recorded annually.

'The increase in diseases is due to various factors. The pace of life has changed, food quality has become an issue, and life expectancy has increased. Regarding patients seeking specialists and undergoing preventive examinations, there is some activity compared to previous years, yet the referral rates are not satisfactory,' said the expert.

He expressed concern that many patients seek medical help late, often in complex stages of the disease. According to the specialist, many go to the doctor with 'bleeding wounds.'

‘Women often register with a nail technician every week. And this continues throughout the year. When you ask when they last visited a doctor, they cannot provide an answer. Moreover, they may claim that the examination is paid. First, I don’t think visiting a nail technician is free; second, there are many free examination programs available,' said Arthur Avetisyan.