Bishkek, March 18, 2026. /Kabar/. Over 80% of deaths in Kyrgyzstan are caused by chronic non-communicable diseases, and the key risk factors are tobacco and alcohol use, unhealthy diet, and low physical activity, Deputy Minister of Health Bakytbek Kadyraliev told during the Healthy Life Forum 2026 in Moscow.
According to Bakytbek Kadyraliev, effective prevention requires not only medical but also regulatory and intersectoral solutions aimed at creating an environment conducive to a healthy lifestyle.
He emphasized that Kyrgyzstan is implementing the national program "Healthy People - Prosperous Country" (2019-2030) based on WHO recommendations. Key areas include strengthening tobacco control measures, developing healthy eating policies, limiting sugar, salt, and trans fat consumption, and promoting prevention and early detection of risk factors at the primary health care level.
The ministry of health noted that special attention is being paid to the implementation of clinical protocols for the early detection of hypertension, diabetes, and other risk factors, the development of digital healthcare tools, and enhancing the role of nurses in preventive work.
The country is also implementing active ageing programs, establishing school health committees, and developing communication campaigns aimed at fostering a healthy lifestyle culture.
In conclusion, the Deputy Minister noted that effective chronic disease prevention is possible through a combination of government policy on risk factor regulation, interagency cooperation, and active communication with the public, which will reduce premature mortality and improve public health.