Cervical cancer is one of those unique types of cancer that can be prevented or treated almost 100% of the time if detected in a precancerous or early stage. Colposcopy is a crucial link in this process.

UNFPA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health of the RA, initiated an internationally certified colposcopy program for Armenian doctors. It included theoretical and practical modules, upon completion of which a specialist, after successfully passing the examination, receives international accreditation from the International Federation for Cervical Pathology and Colposcopy (IFCPC).

Why is Colposcopy Important?

“When detecting oncogenic strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the next step is colposcopy. There are around 200 types of the virus, 40 of which are high and low risk  oncogenic strains. First the HPV test detect if High risk types are positive. The colposcopy examination allows the affected area to be clearly visualized and a targeted biopsy to be performed. If there is no problem, the patient is placed under regular monitoring; however, if a problem is detected, appropriate treatment is carried out. Our goal is to undertake all necessary measures to prevent cancer,” explains Suzanna Babloyan, obstetrician-gynecologist and Doctor of Medical Sciences, highlighting once again the vital role of colposcopists in this process.

Doctor Babloyan is one of the 24 specialists who participated in the Colposcopy Program initiated by UNFPA and is the first from the participants to receive accreditation from the IFCPC.

“In Armenia, each of us has worked and performed examinations, but previously, none of us possessed international accreditation. The course not only transferred all currently operating international standards but also opened new doors, making us part of an international professional community; approximately 300 specialists from all over the world are involved in the Federation. If I encounter a suspicious case and need a professional consultation, today's digital capabilities allow me to send the examination images to members of the Federation in Greece, Scotland, or Great Britain—colleagues I became acquainted with through this programme. This allows us to consult with one another and find the best solution,” notes Dr. Babloyan, expressing hope that such training sessions will be continuous and made available for new doctors.

Experience Should Be Transferred to Youth

Syuzanna Babloyan has worked at the Erebuni Medical Centre for more than twenty years and also gives lectures at the Yerevan State Medical University.

“My experience has shown that clinical practice and teaching are inseparable. Humanity is growing, and if you do not prepare the young generation, who will treat people? After all, everyone's turn to consult a doctor eventually comes. No one is born a master; we all have to start somewhere, and by passing on our knowledge, we also grow, constantly working on ourselves,” the doctor notes. She adds that this approach took root particularly during her years of study in Athens: “At first, we participated in surgeries as an observer, then we were entrusted with the role of first assistant, and later, we began operating while our professor assisted us. This approach was systematic and applied to everyone; this is how we were formed as doctors.”

 From Giving Life to Saving Lives: The Mission

Despite a demanding daily routine focused on women's reproductive health, lecturing, and mentoring the next generation, Suzanna Babloyan confesses that the most rewarding part of her work is the birth of a new life. This profound sense of purpose was the deciding factor when she chose her profession.

“There is so much joy in this profession; when a child is born, everyone is happy: the mother, the family, and the doctor. We receive a ‘bonus of positivity’ every single day. Welcoming a new life is always moving; it doesn't matter whether it is the first birth or the tenth... It still feels just as special today. A new person coming into the world represents a new life and new hopes, the hope that everything will get better, and that we will live more prosperously in a better country.”

Photos: Spartak Avetisyan/UNFPA in Armenian