Fainting, or syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness. What causes it, what types exist, and how can it be distinguished from an epileptic seizure? Learn what to do in such situations and how to recognize the signs.   This topic was presented as part of #OpenFamilyEducation by Mane Tadevosyan, a pediatric neurologist at Arabkir Medical Center.

Constipation in children: In this #OpenFamilyEducation session, Armen Abrahamyan, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Arabkir Medical Center, provides valuable insights.   Listen, stay informed, and make the right decisions when you notice any issues with your child's digestive health.

Listen to one of our young pediatricians, Mary Marandyan, as she discusses the risks of relying on “internet medicine.” Being informed is important, but it does not replace medical expertise. Trust only qualified professionals to address your health concerns.   #OpenFamilyEducation covers essential health topics.

It is best to get vaccinated before the season to prevent acute respiratory infections, rather than during an active infection. Sergey Sargsyan, Head of the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health at Arabkir Medical Center, addressed this topic in an interview with Radio Liberty/Azatutyun.

Once again, the topic of children's and adolescents' health focuses on overweight and obesity. Specialists Marina Melkumova and Eva Movsesyan from the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health shared insights from their research and provided recommendations on managing children's weight. Watch the full segment from the Armalur news program on Nur TV.   

What is celiac disease? Why does it occur? How does it manifest? What should and shouldn’t be done if celiac disease is suspected? As part of #OPENFamilyEducation, Dr. Siranush Pashinyan, a pediatric gastroenterologist at the Arabkir Medical Center, provided a brief overview of the condition.

Our specialists were invited to the latest episode of the “Buzh Info” program on Shant TV. Neurosurgeon Niko Arzumanyan discussed Parkinson’s disease, while audiologist Nelly Mosesova provided insights on hearing hygiene. Watch and stay informed!    

RA Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan met with members of the “Union of Medical Institutions of Armenia” NGO. She noted that she is happy to see how medical centers are uniting to jointly implement steps aimed at developing the healthcare system.   During the meeting, Anahit Avanesyan summarized the past year in the healthcare sector, presented programs and initiatives for 2025, as well as listened to the proposals of specialists. Such constructive discussions play an important role in the continuous development of healthcare and ensuring access to quality medical services.

A reminder about antibiotics: do not self-prescribe, do not interrupt the prescribed course, and follow all medical guidelines. Listen to Sergey Sargsyan, pediatrician and head of the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health at the "Arabkir" Medical Center, as he discusses this important topic.   Covered by the Public TV Company’s "News" program.  

Fever, cough, runny nose, difficulty breathing, and headache—these are common symptoms of metapneumovirus infection. Epidemiologists emphasize that this is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001 and typically resurfaces every 5–7 years. Watch Radio Liberty’s coverage on the topic and listen to Astghik Mirzakhanyan, pediatrician at the Arabkir Medical Center, for expert advice on protecting yourself from infections.   https://www.facebook.com/ArabkirJMC/videos/2927193414123487

Dear Compatriots,   New Year and Christmas are moments for new hopes, renewed faith, and the strengthening of mutual love. It is a time to reflect on the past, hold ourselves accountable, and look toward the future with brighter, more humane, and patriotic actions.   In these special moments of the New Year, may our hopes, love, and faith grow. May 2025 bring peace and safety to all corners of the world and to our homeland. May there be endless opportunities to work, create, and do good.   We wish you all health, love, and success.   HAPPY NEW YEAR AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!

New Year gifts from Yerevan Municipality have brought joy to the little patients at the "Arabkir" Medical Center. The surprise delivery of "Aram" teddy bears lit up their faces with smiles.   The "Aram" teddy bear, a lover of classical music, was created in collaboration with the State Symphony Orchestra of Armenia.   We sincerely thank the Municipality for thoughtfully delivering these gifts to our children. We truly appreciate the healing power of music. We wish everyone a joyful mood, peace, and, of course, health in 2025 and beyond.

The clinical residents of Arabkir Medical Center summarize the year by presenting notable cases, featuring one fascinating professional story after another. These include rare pathologies and unique approaches to diagnosis and treatment. The annual event is organized by the Arabkir Young Physicians Association.    https://www.facebook.com/reel/921506236363279

In Bun TV's health podcast, developmental pediatrician Irina Tovmasyan discusses Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Tune in to learn more about this condition, which, while relatively new in our country, has long been recognized worldwide.    

A pediatric rehabilitation center has been operating within the Meghri Medical Center for several months now.   Here are some uplifting photos from our daily operations.   We are proud that the Arabkir team has successfully established this essential service in Meghri, one of the most remote cities from the capital, to support children in need and their families.

Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan and Siddhartha Datta, the WHO Representative in Armenia, have granted the "Arabkir" Medical Center-Institute of Child and Adolescent Health the status of a WHO Collaborating Center. This was reported by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia to Armenpress.   "We are proud that this center is the first to receive the status of a WHO Collaborating Center. Our country, even with modest means, continues to expand programs aimed at preserving, restoring, and improving the health of children and adolescents," stated Minister Anahit Avanesyan.   The Minister emphasized the significant progress made in recent years in children's health, disease prevention, screening programs, treatment, and rehabilitation services. She highlighted that this progress is reflected not only in the expansion and improvement of these programs but also in the remarkable scientific work being conducted. "We cannot talk about progress without the active involvement of our medical centers in research and scientific endeavors," the Minister added.   Professor Ara Babloyan, Scientific Director of the "Arabkir" Medical Center, emphasized that the institute fully implements programs focused on child development, the introduction of rehabilitation services, the health of adolescents and schoolchildren, and the overall improvement of pediatric care, in line with the Ministry of Health's strategy.   According to the source, Siddhartha Datta, the WHO Representative in Armenia, praised the "Arabkir" Medical Center-Institute of Child and Adolescent Health for its vast experience and data-driven, scientific research approaches in the field of child and adolescent health, disease prevention, and treatment. He noted that successful centers of excellence like Arabkir, with significant accumulated experience, are eligible to receive the prestigious status of a WHO Collaborating Center.

Public TV’s News program covered the ceremony in which the "Arabkir" Medical Center-Institute of Child and Adolescent Health was granted the status of a "World Health Organization Collaborating Center."   Thank you to our esteemed colleagues for their support.      

Years of Tireless Work Recognized by the WHO   The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially designated Arabkir Medical Center-Institute of Child and Adolescent Health (Arabkir MC-ICAH) as a “WHO Collaborating Centre” in the field of child and adolescent health. This recognition places Armenia among an elite group of nine countries in the WHO European Region, including Great Britain, France, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Norway, and Russia.     An event was held today at "Arabkir" BH-ICAH to celebrate this milestone. Distinguished attendees included Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan, Deputy Minister Armen Gasparyan, Head of the WHO Armenia Office Siddhartha Datta, UN Resident Coordinator Françoise Jacquet, and representatives from UNICEF, UNFPA, the UN World Food Program, and other local and international organizations.     Professor Ara Babloyan, Scientific Director of Arabkir MC-ICAH, welcomed guests, expressing gratitude for their presence on this significant occasion. Reflecting on the institute’s journey since its establishment in 2003, he noted initial skepticism about its purpose. However, the institute's accomplishments have had a profound impact not only in Armenia but also internationally. These efforts, focused on child development, adolescent health, school health, and pediatric care quality, have earned the trust and recognition of the WHO. Arabkir MC-ICAH continues to lead transformative programs in alignment with Armenia's Ministry of Health strategies, contributing to improved health outcomes for children and adolescents.     Sergey Sargsyan, Head of the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, presented the Institute's activities across various domains, ranging from educational, research, and informational programs to practical medicine. Special emphasis was placed on rehabilitation, newborn screening, rapid response initiatives, and training for nurses and allied health professionals. Notably, one of the most recent achievements is that just a few days ago, the European Council of Pediatrics granted the Arabkir MC-ICAH the status of a pediatric allergology training center meeting European standards.     The attendees were also greeted and congratulated via videoconference by Martin Weber, Head of the Child and Adolescent Health Program at the WHO European Office, who is responsible for quality assurance in medical care.     Siddhartha Datta, Head of the WHO Armenia Office, expressed high appreciation for the work of Arabkir MC-ICAH over the years. He remarked on numerous occasions where he was deeply impressed by the center’s exceptional contributions, which have consistently demonstrated a level of excellence. This outstanding work, he noted, served as the basis for the WHO granting such a prestigious status at the regional level. In his speech, Dr. Datta emphasized the center’s extensive expertise in child and adolescent health, disease prevention, and treatment, as well as its data-driven, research-oriented approaches. He added that such centers of excellence, with their significant achievements and accumulated experience, have the potential to receive recognition as WHO Collaborating Centers, which opens doors for broader collaboration and even greater success.     Minister Anahit Avanesyan, in her speech, described the occasion as historic and of great public and state significance. She stated: "We are proud that this center is the first in Armenia to receive the status of a WHO Collaborating Center. Despite limited resources, our country continuously expands programs aimed at preserving, restoring, and improving the health of children and adolescents. This policy remains a priority."     Upon receiving the document confirming the WHO Collaborating Center status, Ara Babloyan expressed his gratitude, stating: "We are happy to not only learn from the world’s leading health organizations but also share our knowledge and experience with other countries. This is the formula for humanity's progress."

In response to journalists’ inquiries, we would like to inform you that a 14-year-old child ingested a large quantity of medication at home. The child was initially taken to Alaverdi Hospital for acute poisoning and, due to acute renal failure, was transferred to the "Arabkir" Medical Center the following day. Upon arrival at "Arabkir," the child was diagnosed with acute multi-organ failure. Unfortunately, despite the doctors' best efforts, the outcome was not successful.

Watch Public Radio's coverage of the event summarizing the program for children with hearing impairments.

The hall of "Arabkir" Medical Center was buzzing with activity during an event dedicated to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The "Havat" NGO for mothers of hearing-impaired children, together with UNICEF Armenia, presented the outcomes of their joint program addressing the needs of children with hearing impairments, including refugees, and fostering their social inclusion.   The program primarily focused on children from Artsakh with hearing problems. Key activities included collecting and verifying their data, conducting hearing tests, assessing their needs, and providing hearing aids and device inserts where necessary. The "DzaynEar" package of didactic materials for speech development classes was updated with resources for three age groups, and videos were created to guide parents.   The event opened with remarks from Professor Ara Babloyan, Scientific Director of "Arabkir" Medical Center, and Christine Weigand, UNICEF's representative in Armenia. Both highlighted the importance of early problem detection and intervention, stressing that collaboration between parents and specialists is vital to achieving meaningful results.   The event concluded with performances by young artists from the Speech Development Center of "Arabkir" Medical Center, joined by their older peers from the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra.   A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to this impactful initiative!

The Nursing and Therapists Excellence Center continues to offer continuing professional development for pediatric nurses through both theoretical and practical seminars.

There are situations where even the most ordinary actions become dreams, and it is thanks to dedicated and professional doctors that these dreams are realized.   Such was the case with 11-year-old Vardan. News.am’s video tells the story of the boy’s journey back to life after a serious car accident. What seemed impossible became a reality, thanks to the team at the Department of Clinical Rehabilitology at the Arabkir Medical Center, their colleagues, and Vardan's family.

Today, we celebrate Pediatricians' Day. We are proud that the "Arabkir" Medical Center serves as a professional hub and a cornerstone for many pediatricians in our country. In our large family, working day and night for the health of children, we have not only several pediatric departments and outpatient clinics but also the 2nd Department of Pediatrics of YSMU and the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, serving as a unique bridge for scientific research, practical application, and professional education.   Dear pediatricians, you are the ones who serve society with dedication, ensuring the health and well-being of children. It is through your care and expertise that little patients smile once more and return home.   We thank you and congratulate you with all our hearts!

Dear parents,   Listen to the insights of Lia Andreasyan, a pediatrician at the Arabkir Medical Center, on acute otitis media in children. This episode of the "Buzh Info" program series is dedicated to you.   

Another rare case, another team victory at the "Arabkir" Medical Center.   A 17-year-old patient had been complaining of pain in the left hip joint for three years and recently started limping. He had undergone several examinations and, as usual, consulted a rheumatologist, receiving treatment for hip osteoarthritis. However, as the treatment showed no effectiveness, the patient was referred to the "Arabkir" Medical Center for an orthopedic consultation. The orthopedic team suspected osteoid osteoma and ordered a computed tomography (CT) scan, which confirmed the presence of osteoid osteoma located in the neck of the femur.   Osteoid osteoma is a rare bone formation, occurring in 1-2 out of 100,000 people, most commonly in those aged 5-20. Its origin often remains unknown, and it can be located in various parts of the bone, more frequently in the distal parts of the tubular bones. One of the key symptoms is pain, especially at night.   To alleviate the pain significantly impacting the patient's quality of life, a surgical intervention was planned under computed tomography guidance. This technique allowed the surgical team to identify the shortest, least traumatic, and most effective path for surgical instruments to access the osteoma without damaging other important anatomical structures.   After carefully selecting the optimal access point, the orthopedic surgeon inserted a metal guide wire into the pathological focus, made a small 1 cm incision at the entry point, and completely excised the osteoma using a special scalpel. The entire procedure was monitored in real-time by a radiologist who reviewed the CT images.   The patient experienced immediate relief following the surgery, with complete resolution of the pain and restoration of a balanced gait.

Marina Melkumova, a pediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist at Arabkir Medical Center, presented the effects of energy drinks on the health of children and adolescents.   Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants that affect metabolism, and they should not be included in children’s diets. The harmful effects of energy drinks include: Increased blood pressure Elevated heart rate Feelings of anxiety and restlessness Sleep disturbances and insomnia Dehydration In extreme cases, heart rhythm disturbances, acute kidney failure, and convulsions. In Armenia, as in many parts of the world, the number of adolescents—and even children—consuming energy drinks is rising each year. According to the Health Behavior in School-Age Children Survey (2022), 40% of adolescents in Armenia consume energy drinks weekly. A video on this topic will be released soon.

In honor of World Pneumonia Day, we share valuable insights from Dr. Gevorg Boyajyan, Head of the Pulmonology Department at "Arabkir" Medical Center. We invite you to visit the department's page to learn more about its initiatives and meet the dedicated team caring for our young patients. These tireless professionals work around the clock to safeguard children’s health with unwavering commitment.

Today marks the International Day of Radiology, a day to celebrate radiologists and their essential contributions to medicine. We extend our congratulations and best wishes for continued advancement and growth in this critical field. In honor of the occasion, we invite you to watch an interview with Marine Grigoryan, Head of the Radiology Department at the Arabkir Medical Center, featured on news.am.  

At just 5 days old, baby Narek was diagnosed with biliary atresia—a congenital condition involving the absence of intrahepatic bile ducts. His only chance for survival was a liver transplant. Narek was immediately placed under the care of gastroenterologist-hepatologists at the "Arabkir" Medical Center. According to protocol, he needed to grow to 7-8 kilograms—typically achieved by 6-7 months old—before he could undergo the transplant. Narek was growing well with his mother’s milk and reached the required weight. The operation was scheduled for November 1, and our dedicated team of doctors and staff prepared for the procedure. However, an unexpected turn occurred: due to an acute respiratory infection, Narek quickly developed liver failure, disrupting all prior plans. Our team faced the immense challenge of arranging the operation within hours. In what seemed improbable, everything came together. Colleagues from Minsk and Korea arrived to assist, and the transplant took place on October 29. Narek’s devoted father selflessly donated part of his liver. The surgery went smoothly, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all the specialists involved. Currently, Narek and his doctors are navigating the challenging post-surgical journey, making progress each day with increasingly positive outcomes. During this critical time, as always, The Health Fund for Children of Armenia, led by Armen Martirosyan, stood by our side. The Fund’s financial support, made possible by generous public donations, is invaluable not only to our medical center but to our country, as the surgery costs far exceed what the state can cover. This collaboration between the state, charitable organizations, and medical institutions exemplifies the power of unity for the sake of a child's life. Thank you to everyone who contributed ❤️ Wishing health to Narek and all children ❤️

Dear colleagues, especially healthcare organizers and practicing doctors, We invite you to explore an important work published in Switzerland, titled "Digitalization of Medicine in Low- and Middle-Income Countries." You can access the book by following the link. Published by Springer Nature, the book is edited by Zisis Kozlakidis, Head of the Laboratory Service and Biobank Group at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC); Professor Armen Muradyan, Rector at Yerevan State Medical University after Mkhitar Heratsi, and Karine Sargsyan, Scientific Director of Oncobiobanking at Cedars-Sinai Medical University, California, USA, and WHO expert. This publication addresses the challenges, progress, and future perspectives of digitizing medicine across various fields. It also highlights several success stories that offer valuable insights into the process. Notably, some chapters of the book were authored by Armenian specialists. One such chapter, "Digitalization of Pediatrics in Low- and Middle-Income Countries," was written by Sergey Sargsyan, Head of the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health at the "Arabkir" Medical Center, Associate Professor at Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU), and WHO expert. We are proud to highlight his contribution to this important work.

Astghik Mirzakhanyan, a pediatrician at the 'Arabkir' Medical Center, discusses the important topic of selecting the right pacifiers and bottles. In the 'Buj Info' program, she explains the materials these products are made from, whether they may interfere with breastfeeding, and offers guidance on how to properly disinfect them before use.