Skopje, 7 April 2025 (MIA) – Under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” World Health Day has been observed Monday in Skopje, organised by the Macedonian Medical Association.

President of the Macedonian Medical Association, Goran Dimitrov, noted that the key priority is to reach people who do not go for regular medical check-ups, screenings or get vaccinated for the prevention of cervical cancer.

“Good thing is that last year we introduced the nine-valent vaccine, and now we are vaccinating both boys and girls. Unlike previous years, when the vaccination rate dropped to as low as 32%, it is now increasing to over 50-60%. There are no side effects from the vaccine. To date, 270 million doses of this vaccine have been administered, which is considered one of the discoveries of the 21st century,” Dimitrov said.

In response to a question regarding advancements in science, Dimitrov highlighted that they are fulfilling their duties within the area of responsibility.

“When it comes to progress in science, the key educational institutions in the country are the three medical faculties, secondary medical schools and all other related institutions. However, within our jurisdiction, we are actively organizing events, workshops, congresses, and symposia of international significance,” he said.

Dimitrov reminded that this year, the Macedonian Medical Association is celebrating its 80th anniversary, having been founded in August 1945. He emphasized that their profession consists of around seven to eight thousand medical doctors, and the organization works towards achieving the goals of the Macedonian Medical Association, including organizing continuous medical education. As he stated, medical education does not stop with the completion of medical school, as well as maintaining the reputation of doctors in our country.

Health Minister Arben Taravari noted that the Ministry’s main goal is to ensure that patients receive better, higher-quality and more accessible healthcare services. He emphasized that the health of mothers and newborns is one of their key priorities, and he also extended his congratulations to all healthcare workers on the occasion of World Health Day.

WHO representative in North Macedonia, Akeem Ali, emphasized that this year’s focus is on maternal and newborn health, which he stated is crucial for the country’s future.

“Your doctors, nurses, and all healthcare workers have done truly great work, and North Macedonia has made significant progress. However, there is still work to be done. I hope that we will continue to work together in the future and achieve success,” Ali said.

Photo: MIA/Ministry of Health