Top Three Serious Diseases in Armenia for 2023

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia will continue to enhance the accessibility of medical assistance and services for the population. This was confirmed by Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan during a meeting of the Standing Committee on Health Issues of the National Assembly, where she presented a report on the progress and results of the government program (2021-2026) for the year 2023.

“We need to increase accessibility not only in physical but also financial terms, and this medical service should also be of high quality, meeting current modern standards and requirements,” emphasized the minister.

In this regard, the ministry has carried out 46 initiatives in 2023. Avanesyan reported that within the framework of state orders, the volumes of hospital care for hard-to-access treatments have increased, with the number of services provided reaching 861,845, which is 74,981 more than in 2022.

According to her, the top three serious diseases in 2023 remained the same: cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and malignant tumors. The minister also added that the medical services for malignant tumors have increased by 50,000 this year, which is a 1.5% rise compared to 2022.

“As a result of state measures, we have seen positive dynamics: an increase in the detection of diseases and a reduction in mortality by 1%. The accessibility of medical services has contributed to this,” stated Avanesyan.

Regarding maternal and child health initiatives, she noted that there are quite good indicators in terms of reducing infant mortality, while no improvements have yet been observed in child mortality rates as the numbers have not decreased. Avanesyan emphasized that they are analyzing what additional measures need to be taken in this area.

MP Lusine Badalyan from the Civil Contract faction asked the minister about the “Healthy Aging” program and what it entails. Avanesyan replied that the goal of the program is to change the perception of aging, specifically that a person, upon reaching retirement age, does not have to resort to a passive lifestyle.

“This program has both educational and practical components. Our beneficiaries learn about physical activity that will not harm their health and will not exacerbate chronic conditions. They also learn a full range of neurological exercises that help preserve all aspects of cognitive memory. This program has generated significant enthusiasm among the elderly,” the minister noted.

She also mentioned that the program is currently being implemented in Yerevan, utilizing school buildings that are available starting from 2-3 PM.