Over 5,000 Moldovans received free lung screenings in the first five months of the year
In the first five months of the year, approximately five thousand citizens from seven rural districts benefited from free lung screening services using mobile digital radiography. This screening aims to detect tuberculosis and precancerous conditions at an early stage. While the World Health Organization recommends conducting this screening every two years, in the Republic of Moldova, it is performed annually due to the consistently high incidence of tuberculosis, say experts in the field.
Nicolae Nalivaico, the head of the Diagnostic Service at the Institute of Pneumology, told Radio Moldova that screening is vital, especially for individuals with comorbidities that increase the risk of developing tuberculosis.
He stated that these investigations can also identify other lung diseases, including post-COVID sequelae. The results of these examinations are sent to the family doctor, who may then refer patients to a specialist if necessary.
“We are talking about the cardiologist, as we identify individuals with suspected cardiac issues. We also address post-COVID syndrome, which includes those who have suffered from COVID and are experiencing pulmonary consequences. They are identified and further examined,” Nalivaico noted.
He emphasized that citizens experiencing symptoms such as a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fatigue, weakness, or weight loss should consult their family doctor. This is crucial as authorities are implementing measures to prevent and control the spread of tuberculosis, particularly among vulnerable groups.
“Tuberculosis occurs most frequently among disadvantaged populations, including drug users. We have a pilot project involving new systems called ultra-portable radiodiagnostic installations that utilize artificial intelligence to immediately identify individuals suspected of having tuberculosis,” he added.
We remind you that for this year, the National Health Insurance Company signed a contract with the "Chiril Draganiuc" Pneumology Institute to provide screening services amounting to over two million lei, nearly double the amount from the previous year.
