On December 13, 2024, a conference was held in Almaty in honor of the 85th anniversary of the founder of pediatric cardiorheumatology in Kazakhstan, Professor Bolat Khabizhanov

Almaty hosted a scientific and practical conference with international participation “Pediatric Rheumatology: Milestones in History and Modern Treatment Strategies”, Almaty hosted a scientific and practical conference with international participation “Pediatric Rheumatology: Milestones in History and Modern Treatment Strategies” dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the outstanding scientist, pediatrician and founder of the school of pediatric cardiorheumatology in Kazakhstan, professor, doctor of medical sciences Bolat Khabizhanovich Khabizhanov. The event was organized by the Kazakh National Medical University named after S. D. Asfendiyarov, the Scientific Center for Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, and the Public Association “Union of Pediatricians of Kazakhstan”. The main objective of the conference was to exchange experience in the field of diagnostics and treatment of rheumatic diseases in children using modern evidence-based medicine technologies. The participants discussed interdisciplinary aspects of patient care, as well as new approaches to the treatment of severe disabling diseases. During the event, the Minister of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan Akmaral Alnazarova congratulated Professor Khabizhanov on his anniversary: ​​”An outstanding pediatrician, a true professional in your field, you dedicated your life to protecting the health of children – the most valuable asset of any society, and left an indelible mark on the history of healthcare in the country. Your contribution to the development of pediatrics, especially pediatric cardiorheumatology, cannot be overestimated. More than 60 years of your selfless service to medicine have become a symbol of dedication to your cause and a huge personal contribution to the health of the younger generation of Kazakhstan. Your example inspires entire generations of medical workers, showing that the strength of a doctor lies not only in knowledge, but also in a huge heart, kindness and a sincere desire to help people.” During the conference, the rector of the Kazakh National Medical University named after S. D. Asfendiyarov Marat Shoranov delivered a congratulatory speech: “KazNMU is proud that it was within our walls that your path began, leading to outstanding achievements in pediatrics, pediatric cardiorheumatology and children’s health care. You saved thousands of children’s lives, laid the foundations for new directions in medicine, trained generations of specialists who continue your work today. Your scientific works became the basis for many medical studies. And your sincere desire to share experience with future generations of doctors makes you not only a Doctor, but also a Teacher with a capital letter.” About the conference and the contribution of the professor The scientific event, which brought together scientists and practitioners from all over Kazakhstan and abroad, became an important platform for discussing modern approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases in children. Participants noted the key achievements of Professor Khabizhanov, who devoted more than 60 years of his life to protecting children’s health, forming a school of pediatrics in Kazakhstan and developing such areas as pediatric cardiology and rheumatology. The legend of domestic pediatrics Professor Bolat Khabizhanovich Khabizhanov is one of the most outstanding pediatricians in Kazakhstan, whose life has become a symbol of dedication to medicine and care for children’s health, a legendary person in the field of pediatrics. Bolat Khabizhanovich’s professional path began in 1962. Working as a pediatrician, he quickly became a leading specialist in the field of pediatric cardiorheumatology. Bolat Khabizhanov is rightfully considered the founder of pediatric cardiology and rheumatology in the republic, and his scientific and pedagogical activities had a significant impact on the development of domestic medicine. Throughout his career, Bolat Khabizhanovich actively traveled to the regions of the republic, consulted complex cases, referred children with congenital heart defects for operations, which saved thousands of lives. Among the professor’s achievements: Head of the Department of Pediatric Diseases at KazNMU (1991-2013), where more than 25 dissertations were prepared under his supervision. Creation of the first domestic textbook in the Kazakh language “Balalar aurulary” (later republished as “Pediatrics”), which became a reference book for medical students. Active social activities: membership in the Association of Rheumatologists of Central Asia and Kazakhstan, participation in the development of medical terminology in the Kazakh language and the publication of medical dictionaries. Author of more than 300 scientific papers, including monographs, textbooks and articles. His contribution to the development of pediatrics cannot be overestimated. Under his leadership, advanced methods of diagnosis and treatment of children with severe cardiac and rheumatic pathologies were introduced. He is also the author of books about the creative heritage of Khalel Dosmukhamedov, which have become a valuable contribution to the history of domestic medicine. Warm words of students One of the most touching moments of the event was the congratulations of Professor Khabizhanov’s students, who came from all regions of Kazakhstan. Many of them are now heads of departments, research centers and specialized medical institutions. They noted that Professor Khabizhanov became not only a mentor for them, but also an example of the highest professionalism, humanity and boundless devotion to his profession. His contribution to their development as doctors cannot be overestimated. Significance of the conference The conference dedicated to the anniversary of the professor brought together doctors, researchers and students from all over Kazakhstan and abroad. The conference became a platform for discussing current issues in pediatric rheumatology, such as innovative diagnostic and treatment methods, autoinflammatory syndromes and post-COVID syndrome in children. Participants noted that events of this level contribute to strengthening the medical community and developing new approaches to treating diseases in children. The event included master classes, poster sessions and discussions. This became an important platform for exchanging experiences and further strengthening the school of pediatric cardiorheumatology founded by Professor Khabizhanov. The 85th anniversary of Professor Khabizhanov became an occasion to recognize his long-term contribution to the development of Kazakhstani medicine. As the director of the Scientific Center for Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery Abai Kusainov noted: “His scientific heritage, professionalism and sincere concern for children’s health continue to inspire a new generation of doctors, strengthening the country’s healthcare system.” The name of Bolat Khabizhanovich Khabizhanov will forever remain in the history of Kazakhstani medicine as an example of professionalism, dedication and boundless love for his work. His work and scientific heritage continue to inspire a new generation of doctors, strengthening the foundation of national healthcare.