Dozens joined a marathon in Chisinau to say: “Tuberculosis can be defeated”
Dozens of people joined a solidarity marathon on Saturday, March 21, at “Valea Trandafirilor” Park in Chișinău to send a clear message: tuberculosis can be defeated through unity and joint action. Organizers held the event amid concerns that the disease remains a serious public health issue, highly contagious and potentially fatal if untreated.
The marathon included interactive moments, including a quiz where participants answered questions about tuberculosis.
“Tuberculosis affects only the lungs. False. Those who answered ‘false’ take a step forward.”
Participants then lined up at the start and began the race.
They ran to show solidarity and support for people affected by tuberculosis, demonstrating active involvement in the fight against the disease.
“Anyone can join this marathon. It is not about running; it is about sending a message. We must show those affected by tuberculosis that we stand with them, that we care, and that Moldova shows solidarity,” said Sergiu Gherman, director of the Center for Health Policies.
“I am participating for the second time. I also took part last year. I like this type of activity because it improves health and gives strength for many years.”
“This is my first year in this marathon. I decided to join because only as a community can we change things for the better, and people need to know about tuberculosis, that it exists and can be treated.”
“I have participated for three or four years in a row. I think it is very important to be here because we support those with tuberculosis, as they do not have the same opportunity to go out.”
“We participate every year, and the message is to raise awareness that tuberculosis has not disappeared. We try to share this message with young people, so I bring my child every year.”
The Republic of Moldova ranks among countries with a high tuberculosis incidence rate. However, thanks to free access to modern medicines and improved treatment conditions, mortality has dropped significantly, from 406 cases in 2015 to 124 in 2025.
“We have completed the National Tuberculosis Response Program for 2021–2025. We developed a program for the next five years and hope for its approval. The long-term goal is a tuberculosis-free Moldova, without deaths and without high costs,” said Valentina Vilc, coordinator of the national tuberculosis program.
In 2025, Moldova recorded 1,734 new tuberculosis cases, down from 1,935 in 2024. Early detection also reduced cases among children. In 2025, authorities recorded 117 new pediatric cases, down from 145 in 2024.
