PHOTO // Oncological Institute of Moldova receives donation of modern equipment from EU, World Health Organization

The Oncological Institute today received a donation worth 6.63 million lei, which includes advanced medical equipment provided by the European Union and the World Health Organization (WHO). The equipment will be used for high-precision diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, pain control in bone metastases and localized radiotherapy.

Present at the event, Secretary of State of the Health Ministry Angela Paraschiv emphasized that over 45,000 people live with an oncological diagnosis in Moldova at present, which places enormous pressure on the health system.

"Today we mark a very important event for the health system, but especially for the Oncological Institute, which represents the support and hope of patients fighting oncological pathology. In Moldova, the most common types of cancer are: breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, including skin cancer, which together represent more than half of all oncological cases. These figures prove the importance of investments in the prevention, early diagnosis and screening, as well as the use of modern treatment technologies, such as the ones provided by the Oncological Institute. Thus, the newly donated equipment represents essential support for modernizing services and enhancing our patients' chances of treatment," said Angela Paraschiv.

The official emphasized that, in the context of implementing the national cancer control programme for 2016-2025, Moldova aims to achieve the objective of reducing mortality by 7 per cent.

"This national strategy shows that fighting cancer is not just about treatment, but involves a complex of support measures for patients. This generous donation provided by the European Union and the World Health Organization is not just technical assistance, but a clear sign of solidarity and confidence in Moldova's ability to modernize and develop the services provided to patients. Through these investments, the Oncological Institute asserts itself as a national center of excellence and reference in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Thus, our patients will benefit from modern, minimally invasive treatments that reduce hospitalization time and increase the chance of recovery," Angela Paraschiv stressed.

At the same time, the secretary of state thanked the European Union and the World Health Organization for their constant support provided to Moldova in various fields, including health.

"It is proof that, only through strong partnerships and common commitments, we can build a more resilient health system, that is better prepared to meet people's needs. Health knows no boundaries and international collaboration means saved lives. Today, through this gesture of generosity and solidarity, we give a new chance at life for thousands of patients from our country," added Angela Paraschiv.

For his part, the director of the Oncological Institute, Ruslan Baltaga, said that some of this equipment represents an absolute first in Moldova.

"The fields of application of the equipment are very varied: from precise diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment to pain control in bone metastases and highly precise localized radiotherapy. We are grateful for the constant support and for the fact that the oncological field has been declared and supported as a national priority," said Ruslan Baltaga.

The head of the Cooperation Section of the EU Delegation in Chisinau, Frederic Coene, emphasized that the European Union was not just about the economy, but also about the well-being of the population.

"Cancer is a disease that affects the entire world. There is no family that doesn't know someone who suffers or has suffered from cancer. There is a need not only for treatment, but for early diagnosis and guidance throughout this journey. It is very visible that, in recent years, the Oncological Institute has made significant progress and there are notable changes. We are ready to continue providing the necessary assistance. Moldova is part of the EU, and we want a healthy Europe," the official specified.

Also, the representative of WHO in Moldova, Miljana Grbic, noted the need of using modern technologies in cancer detection and treatment.

"Today we are experiencing a very important moment on the path to combating cancer. This equipment will help us provide more safety to patients. Assistance is part of a much larger aid, which has a direct impact on cancer control and treatment in Moldova. I am glad that we can have a real impact on patient care and the resilience of the health system," said Miljana Grbic.

According to the Health Ministry, annually, about 7,500 people are diagnosed with different forms of cancer and over 6,000 citizens lose their lives because of this disease. In Moldova, oncological diseases are the second leading cause of mortality after cardiovascular diseases, being a priority problem for the health system.

Physicians warn that one-third of cancer deaths are caused by tobacco use, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays, asbestos. Also, hepatitis B and C viruses, human papillomavirus (HPV) substantially increase the risk of cancer, such as cervical and liver cancer.