The government approved the 2025 Annual Report on the health status of Bulgarians and on progress under the National Health Strategy 2030, the government press office announced.

The report outlines the health and demographic situation of the population during the year, as well as the activities and funds invested in the main goals of healthcare. It includes data on the financing of the system, medical staff, the work of medical institutions, drug policy and the pharmaceutical sector.

A large part of the report is devoted to public health protection, state health inspections and the implementation of the immunization schedule. It also examines lifestyle-related risk factors — smoking, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets and lack of physical activity. These are the leading causes of chronic diseases, which in turn are the main drivers of mortality and poor quality of life both in Bulgaria and across Europe.

An analysis of the key indicators used to track the strategy shows a positive change compared to baseline values in 68% of all indicators. The most notable progress has been in health and demographic indicators — overall, infant, premature, treatable and preventable mortality. The indicators for healthy life years at birth and healthy life expectancy at age 65 have already reached the targets set for 2030.

Mortality from circulatory diseases — ischemic heart disease, acute myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular disease — is also steadily declining. There could be several reasons behind this: healthier lifestyles, fewer risk factors, but also higher-quality healthcare, including new technologies for early diagnosis and treatment.

The government press office noted that a more active and more targeted policy is needed for the prevention and early diagnosis of cancer. According to the office, the most modern treatment methods should be introduced and patient care should be improved, including psychosocial support.

A few days ago, Health Minister Katya Ivkova confirmed that cancer screening tests would be carried out, with the ministry already preparing the necessary logistics to roll them out.