Life expectancy rising in Uzbekistan

Life expectancy in Uzbekistan is increasing. This was announced today, November 10, during President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s meeting with medical and pharmaceutical workers.

The President warmly congratulated attendees on Health Workers’ Day, expressing his deep respect and best wishes to all doctors, nurses, and specialists who safeguard the health of the nation.

’’Today, we will discuss many new initiatives that serve the development of the healthcare sector. Modern medicine cannot be imagined without pharmaceuticals.

From now on, I propose celebrating this holiday as Medical and Pharmaceutical Workers’ Day, and I believe you will support this!

All of this, I am confident, will provide greater motivation and energy for medical and pharmaceutical workers to engage in research and adopt advanced treatment and prevention methods,’’ the President said.

It was emphasized that reforms are being rapidly implemented to ensure sustainable economic development, provide employment and income, offer modern education and upbringing for young people, and strengthen the health of the population.

In recent years, the healthcare sector has received 230 trillion soums ($20 billion). This year, 45 trillion soums were allocated, six times more than in 2016. As a result, 187 new polyclinics and hospitals have been opened, and 1,244 facilities have been reconstructed and equipped.

The capacity of primary healthcare institutions has increased by 60 percent, bringing medical services closer to the population. More than 400 advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures, previously available mainly in the capital, are now being performed in regional centers. Hundreds of complex surgeries have been moved to regional hospitals, and minimally invasive operations are now carried out at the district level.

’’For the first time, kidney transplant operations have been successfully conducted in 45 districts, which is a clear practical confirmation of our work to protect people’s health,’’ the President said.

President Mirziyoyev noted that the changes in healthcare are being felt by millions of people living in rural and remote areas, and are being recognized by international organizations, research, and ranking centers.

’’In our country, average life expectancy has increased—from 71 to 73 years for men, and from 76 to 77.5 years for women. This is a major achievement we have accomplished together.

Of course, such important work, which is the result of hard labor, deserves recognition of the contribution of over 600,000 dedicated healthcare workers. No words of gratitude can fully express our appreciation,’’ the President said.

Following this, the President awarded high state honors, orders, and medals to distinguished individuals. Among them are young doctors who studied and gained experience at prestigious international universities, returned to the country, and are performing advanced medical procedures.

The President also expressed special respect and gratitude to foreign partners who are closely supporting the nation’s healthcare system.