Monday, 25 May 2026
Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Minister of Health and Population, emphasized that public health is a top priority in Egypt’s human development strategy.
Egypt highlights public health advances at 66th Chest Diseases Conference
During the opening of the 66th Annual International Scientific Conference of the Egyptian Society of Chest Diseases and Tuberculosis, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Minister of Health and Population, emphasized that public health is a top priority in Egypt’s human development strategy.
He highlighted the National Tuberculosis Control Program’s significant achievements, including reducing incidence rates to 9 cases per 100,000 people, according to WHO statistics. This success stems from early detection, free treatment, and a robust infrastructure with reference laboratories and access to first- and second-line medications.
Dr. Abdel Ghaffar noted that the Ministry is enhancing medical staff capabilities and improving care services in chest hospitals and centers, with a focus on prevention and early diagnosis to address challenges like climate change and air pollution.
Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, underscored Egypt’s leadership in chest disease management, supporting Arab and African nations through early detection and free treatment programs. He affirmed Egypt’s steady progress toward a digitally advanced healthcare system, leveraging precision medicine, proactive prevention, and telemedicine. Universities and teaching hospitals remain the backbone of healthcare and medical education, with efforts focused on advancing scientific research and technology transfer through international collaborations.
Dr. Awad Tag El-Din, Presidential Advisor for Health Affairs and Conference President, stated that the conference serves as a platform for Egyptian and international medical professionals to discuss scientific and practical solutions for combating chest diseases and tuberculosis. He praised the National Tuberculosis Program for reducing incidence and mortality rates and highlighted the conference’s aim to foster innovative strategies to tackle health and environmental challenges, such as smoking and air pollution.
The three-day conference features prominent experts, including Dr. Osama Abdel-Hay, Head of the Egyptian Medical Syndicate, Dr. Mariam Matar, President of the Emirates Genetic Diseases Association, and Dr. Ayman Farghaly, Conference Secretary-General. Discussions cover advancements in AI-based diagnostics, minimally invasive surgeries, and immunotherapy and biological treatments, reinforcing Egypt’s scientific diplomacy and its role as a hub for scientific excellence and regional cooperation.
Both ministers stressed the importance of investing in scientific research and continuous medical training, integrating tuberculosis control with efforts to combat non-communicable diseases to ensure comprehensive and sustainable healthcare.