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Roundtable on Reproductive Health Held in Astana

On May 15, as part of National Reproductive Health Week, a roundtable took place in Astana with the participation of members of the National Commission for Women Affairs, Family and Demographic Policy under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, healthcare professionals, subject matter experts, and members of the media.

In her opening remarks, Zhuldyzay Iskakova, Deputy Chair of the National Commission, noted:

Public health is a shared responsibility. We must not shift this responsibility from one party to another, but instead work together in unison. This initiative was launched by the National Commission, and we see just how much society needs it. The Week aims to raise public awareness around reproductive health and encourage timely checkups.”

The event served as an expert platform to discuss current challenges, trends, and solutions in the field of women’s reproductive health in Kazakhstan. Special attention was given to prevention, education, and access to modern medical services.

Key topics included modern approaches to reproductive health, the impact of social factors, improving awareness of contraception methods, and the need for comprehensive strategies focused on women’s health across all ages.

Parliamentary initiatives were also raised during the roundtable. Chairman of the Mazhilis Committee on Social and Cultural Development, Askhat Aimagambetov, emphasized the importance of expanding the HPV vaccination program to include boys on a voluntary basis. Additional issues discussed included reducing adolescent pregnancies, strengthening early diagnostics for genetic conditions, and supporting the health of older women.

As noted by Nazym Zhangazinova, member of the National Commission and moderator of the event, special attention throughout the Week was given to outreach in the regions. Meetings with youth and the public allowed for open discussions on access to healthcare, the importance of prevention, and the relevance of HPV vaccination.

The discussion highlighted the need to break taboos surrounding reproductive health, enhance awareness among youth, and involve men in the conversation and solutions.

At the conclusion of the event, participants underscored the importance of uniting the efforts of government bodies, the expert community, and civil society organizations in order to systematically advance women’s health initiatives.