Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Today, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated medical equipment to medical institutions in Jizzakh region to help the region fight tuberculosis. The handover ceremony was attended by representatives of the USAID Mission in Uzbekistan, the Republican Specialized Scientific and Practical Medical Center for Phthisiology and Pulmonology, and the Ferghana Region Health Department. 

Through the combined efforts of the Department of Health, the US Government, and international partners, Uzbekistan has made great strides in reducing TB cases and related deaths. However, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is still a serious problem in Uzbekistan. USAID is working to reduce the burden of tuberculosis in Uzbekistan and Central Asia by building local and regional capacity to improve detection and treatment of MDR-TB. 

Speaking at the event, Cherry Gumapas, Head of USAID’s Office for Health Development in Uzbekistan, said, “Today’s event demonstrates the ongoing partnership between USAID and Uzbekistan to improve healthcare services in the regions, including Jizzakh. Working together, we can improve the health and well-being of the citizens of Uzbekistan.”

The equipment, worth almost US$75,000, including electronic thermometers, stethoscopes, blood pressure monitors and pulse oximeters, will help medical institutions in the region provide effective and timely assistance, ensure rapid diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic diseases.

The medical equipment was donated by the American manufacturer Welch Allyn as part of the USAID End TB in Central Asia project. The equipment will be delivered to the Jizzakh regional center of phthisiology and pulmonology, as well as anti-tuberculosis dispensaries, hospitals and clinics in the Fergana region.