Faced with major economic difficulties in the wake of political upheaval, Kazakstan is striving to strengthen its health care system, not only materially but also through the adoption of enlightened approaches by professionals and of beneficial lifestyles by the public at large.
PIP: The fall of the Soviet Empire led to considerable political and economic turmoil in Kazakhstan during its transition to an independent country. Presently, almost all indicators of public health are declining; the health budget fell from 4% of gross national product in 1991 to 1.6% in 1992 and severe pollution, poor nutrition, and increasing consumption of alcohol and cigarettes prevail. Kazakhstan enjoys a high ratio of 400 physicians per 100,000 population, but a shortage of material resources constrains the delivery of quality health care. Civil discord could result unless the interests of different population groups are met. In this context, Kazakhstan is trying to strengthen its health care system. Aid from international, national, and private groups during the past few years has led to improvements in maternal and child health services and in supplies of essential drugs, baby food, vaccines, and medical equipment. Health care facilities in most parts of the country, however, urgently need support and there is a need to develop training programs for administrators, public health professionals, educators, and family planning workers. The control of tuberculosis has received top priority, followed by esophageal cancer.