In the late 1930s and early 1940s, it became clear once again that one of the main reasons hindering the development of oncology in Azerbaijan was the lack of a specialized scientific and medical department dealing with the problems of malignant tumors. In this regard, in accordance with the Resolution No. 2928 of the Council of People's Commissars of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the People's Commissariat of Health of December 10, 1940, the Scientific Research Institute of X-ray Radiology of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SRIRO) should be organized in Baku.

In addition to the main role of the Institute in the development of X-ray radiology services in Azerbaijan, it has actually implemented the activity of oncology as a science in the Republic. The main directions of scientific research conducted at the Institute were the study of the epidemiology of malignant tumors in the Republic and the development of effective combined and complex methods of cancer treatment.

In 1955, the Institute was headed by Professor MM Alikishibeyov, a well-known surgeon in Azerbaijan. On his initiative, new scientific-clinical and experimental departments were established here.

In addition to the main role of the Institute in the development of X-ray radiology services in Azerbaijan, it has actually implemented the activity of oncology as a science in the Republic. The main directions of scientific research conducted at the Institute were the study of the epidemiology of malignant tumors in the Republic and the development of effective combined and complex methods of cancer treatment.

• Comprehensive oncology services: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of malignant tumors

• Pediatric oncology (regional Pediatric Oncology Clinic established in 2012)

• Outpatient chemotherapy, oncohematology, invasive diagnostics, endoscopy

• Laboratory of Molecular Oncology

• Nuclear medicine and radiology

• Underwent complete modernization and rebuilding between 2006 and 2012.

• Adheres to advanced international standards in oncology care and research.

• Regularly hosts international and local scientific conferences, emphasizing multidisciplinary and evidence-based approaches

• Vision: To be a regional leader in oncology research, education, and comprehensive cancer care, meeting international standards and fostering innovation.

• Mission: To advance the understanding, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer through scientific research, modern technology, and multidisciplinary clinical care, serving both national and international communities

The NCO and its director, Academician Jamil Aliyev, have received numerous national and international awards, including:

• N.N. Petrov Prize of the USSR Academy of Medical Sciences (1980)

• Academician M. Mirgasymov Prize of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (2015)

• Sharaf Order by the President of Azerbaijan for contributions to healthcare and medical science (2016)

• United Nations Council on International Prizes’ honorary title “Messenger of Science and Peace” (2018)