Panama is initiating a comprehensive national dialogue to confront a significant increase in chronic respiratory illnesses. The Ministry of Health announced the new multisectoral strategy during the opening of the National Respiratory Health Forum, an event supported by the British Embassy in Panama and the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca. This effort aligns with the country’s commitments to meet global health targets set by the World Health Organization for 2025.
Health Minister Fernando Boyd Galindo opened the forum by outlining the pressing challenges. He acknowledged advancements in early detection but pointed to two converging factors driving the crisis. Panama’s aging population and widespread environmental exposures are creating a perfect storm, elevating case numbers for conditions like COPD, asthma, and lung cancer. The minister emphasized that a robust response rooted in primary care is now essential.
“A comprehensive response from primary care is required,” said Health Minister Fernando Boyd Galindo. [Translated from Spanish]
The ministry confirmed that the country is preparing to launch a dedicated National Campaign for the 2025-2026 period. This campaign will focus specifically on combating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer, two of the leading causes of death worldwide. As a foundational step to strengthen the healthcare system, the government has already incorporated 6,000 new spirometers to dramatically improve diagnostic capacity across the nation.
Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure with Public and Private Support
Modernizing services through public-private partnerships forms a core pillar of the new strategy. Minister Boyd specifically highlighted the strategic support from AstraZeneca. The company will collaborate with the Ministry of Health by providing intelligent spirometers and backing the upcoming national awareness campaign. Its involvement extends to pushing forward screening projects and digital health solutions designed to expand diagnostic coverage into remote and underserved communities.
Jorge Calderón, Director of Corporate Affairs for AstraZeneca in Central America and the Caribbean, articulated the broader vision behind the partnership. He framed the forum’s goal as a collaborative effort to build sustainable solutions. Calderón reminded attendees that respiratory health transcends clinical boundaries, touching on profound social, economic, and human dignity issues that affect the entire nation.
“The objective of this meeting is to build joint solutions and remember that respiratory health is not just a clinical issue, but a social, economic, human, and dignity issue,” stated Jorge Calderón of AstraZeneca. [Translated from Spanish]
The British Embassy also reaffirmed its commitment to Panama’s public health goals. British Ambassador Greg Houston used his platform at the forum to reiterate the United Kingdom’s support for programs focused on prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of respiratory diseases. This international backing provides additional momentum for the national plan.
A Community Focused Approach to Chronic Respiratory Care
Panama’s strategy identifies community participation as a critical element for success. The plan involves widespread education campaigns, public sensitization initiatives, and patient accompaniment programs to improve adherence to prescribed treatments. For individuals diagnosed with a condition like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, consistent management is key to maintaining quality of life.
An integral care package guaranteed by the strategy includes several key components. Patients will have access to essential tools and therapies. The package encompasses Spirometer tests, inhaled therapies, and oxygen treatment. It also provides for vaccinations, respiratory rehabilitation services, and continuous training for healthcare personnel to ensure the latest standards of care are met.
This national mobilization against respiratory disease represents a significant shift in public health policy. By integrating advanced technology, private sector innovation, and deep community engagement, Panama aims to create a more resilient health system. The coming months will see the detailed rollout of the 2025-2026 campaign as the country works to turn the tide on these debilitating conditions.