Kyrgyzstan launches nationwide campaign to tackle women’s health risks

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (MNTV) — Kyrgyzstan is preparing to launch its annual “Female Health Month” this October, a nationwide campaign designed to mobilize women aged 18 and older to undergo preventive screenings for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

NCDs such as hypertension, diabetes, breast cancer, and cervical cancer remain among the leading causes of illness and premature death in the country. During the month-long campaign, free examinations will be offered through primary health care facilities, including Family Medicine Centres, General Practitioner Centres, Family Group Practices, and rural health posts.

The initiative is organized by the Ministry of Health and supported by a Swiss-funded program that focuses on managing and preventing NCDs across Kyrgyzstan. The effort highlights growing international collaboration in addressing chronic disease burdens in Central Asia.

Past campaigns have demonstrated the scale of the challenge. In October 2024, more than 760,000 women received preventive checkups. Health workers reported that 45,000 of them were diagnosed with high blood pressure, 10,500 were identified as high-risk for cardiovascular conditions, and 5,600 were flagged for potential diabetes. 

Officials say these findings underscore the importance of early detection in reducing long-term health risks.

The Swiss-backed project has progressively expanded its reach. Initially launched in the Chui, Naryn, Talas, and Issyk-Kul regions, it now covers Osh, Jalal-Abad, and Batken provinces as well as the country’s two largest cities, Bishkek and Osh. 

By promoting healthier lifestyles and ensuring equitable access to quality primary care, the program aims to strengthen the overall resilience of Kyrgyzstan’s health system.