Cognitive impairment is one of the most frequent and disabling non-motor manifestations of Parkinson's disease. It significantly reduces patients' quality of life, increases caregiver burden, and contributes to loss of independence. Early identification of cognitive decline is crucial for timely intervention and prevention of dementia progression.

The purpose of the study. To determine the prevalence of cognitive impairment and identify predictors of progression to dementia among patients with Parkinson's disease.

Material and Methods. A total of 106 patients with PD were examined and followed in outpatient clinics in Almaty. The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease was confirmed according to international criteria. Cognitive status was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Disease severity was evaluated using the Hoehn and Yahr scale and the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living Scale. Demographic and clinical parameters, including age, education level, disease duration, and motor subtype, were analyzed.

Results. Mild cognitive impairment was identified in 26.4% of patients, dementia in 34.9%, and no cognitive impairment in 38.7%. More pronounced cognitive decline was more common among older patients, those with lower educational attainment, disease duration over 10 years, and the akinetic-rigid subtype of Parkinson's disease. Regression analysis revealed the key predictors of dementia: disease onset after age 60, duration exceeding 19 years, low education level, and severe motor deficit.

Conclusion. Cognitive impairment is common among Parkinson's disease patients and tends to progress with disease duration and severity. Early detection and systematic monitoring of cognitive functions are essential for implementing preventive measures, slowing dementia progression, and improving the quality of life of individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Introduction. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, the problem of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is of particular importance due to the high incidence of gastrointestinal diseases and limited access to modern diagnostic and therapeutic methods in some regions. Despite the availability of international clinical guidelines, implementing these approaches in clinical practice requires not only technical and organizational support but also a high level of awareness and commitment from primary care and specialized physicians.

The purpose of the study. To assess the level of awareness among physicians in the Republic of Kazakhstan regarding current approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of H. pylori infection, as well as to the symptomatic management of dyspeptic disorders, and to identify key barriers that hinder the prevention and treatment of this infection.

Materials and Methods. This descriptive observational study involved interviewing 175 general practitioners (GPs) and 35 gastroenterologists from 6 regions of Kazakhstan.

Results. The study showed that gastroenterologists generally have a higher level of awareness of modern approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of H. Pylori compared to GPs. Recommendations of clinical protocols remain the most important criterion for both gastroenterologists and GPs when choosing a treatment regimen for H. pylori infection. The primary reasons for the failure of eradication therapy, according to both groups of specialists, are bacterial resistance to antibiotics, insufficient patient awareness of the risks associated with H. pylori persistence, and the importance of completing treatment.

Conclusions. Gastroenterologists have a higher level of awareness than GPs; they also more often use modern diagnostic methods and focus on local antibiotic resistance when choosing treatment regimens. Primary care physicians remain a key link in patient routing; however, their needs for additional training and support are more pronounced.

In recent years, research on developing biodegradable dental coatings has gained particular relevance. In this context, the extract of Asian mint (Mentha asiatica Boriss.), known for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, is considered a key effective component of dental materials.

The purpose of this study. To develop novel biodegradable dental coatings based on Asian mint (Mentha asiatica Boriss.) extract and to determine their technological characteristics.

Methods and materials. The composition of the coating was selected, and its preparation technology was developed. The main stages of the technological process included casting into molds, drying, and sterilization of the final product. The degradation properties of the coatings in the oral cavity were studied. The research was conducted at the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, and at the Medical University of Gdańsk (Gdańsk, Poland).

Results. New biodegradable dental coatings were obtained. It was established that they completely dissolve in oral tissues, suppress microbial flora, reduce inflammation, and accelerate wound healing.

Conclusions. The findings enable the development of safe and effective biodegradable dental coatings for practical use, confirming the scientific novelty of utilizing a plant-derived substance.

Worldwide, between 122 and 256 people per 100,000 population suffer from stroke annually, but in Kazakhstan, this number is much higher, from 258.4 to 433.7 cases per 100,000 between 2015 and 2020. The country also has the highest death rate from ischemic stroke in the world, reflecting problems such as late treatment, health inequalities, and limited rehabilitation opportunities. Human-centred care, which focuses on the needs of patients and their active role in recovery, can help bridge these gaps. However, little is known about how stroke survivors actually receive medical care in Kazakhstan. This study examines their opinions and perspectives to gain a deeper understanding of the barriers, outcomes, and opportunities for improvement.

The purpose of the study. To analyze the experiences and challenges faced by stroke patients during care and recovery.

Materials and Methods. A qualitative study was conducted in Almaty from May to August 2025, involving 31 stroke patients, who consented to face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Data were manually recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a two-step coding process – open coding followed by thematic coding. Two authors independently coded transcripts, with additional review to ensure reliability and validity.

Results. Out of 31 stroke patients surveyed, most were over 60 and retired, with 23 experiencing a stroke for the first time. Common risk factors included chronic conditions and low physical activity. Recovery varied, with many needing ongoing rehabilitation and clearer home care guidance. Patients highlighted delays in medical evaluations, limited specialist access, and insufficient psychological support. While 24 had digital access, older respondents often distrusted telemedicine. Faster ambulance response, public awareness campaigns, and more personalized care were key recommendations. Patients emphasized regular check-ups, physical activity, and emotional resilience as essential for recovery and prevention of future strokes.

Conclusions. Accessible, patient-centred stroke care is essential, especially for older adults, with urgent needs to reduce delays in diagnosis, improve rehabilitation access, and strengthen psychological support. Future efforts should focus on integrating digital tools, public education, and personalized care to support long-term recovery.

School age is a key period in the formation of health and risk factors for future diseases, the issues of protecting the health of school-age children are critically important for the health and education system, and also determines the quality of life, labor and social potential of the people.

Objective: To evaluate the dynamics of coverage by preventive medical examinations and the detection of key pathologies among schoolchildren (grades 0-9) in the Republic of Kazakhstan from 2016 to 2024, taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to identify interrelationships between disorders.

Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of official reporting under Form No. 31 from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Data on coverage, absolute and intensive indicators (per 10,000 examined) for hearing impairments, vision impairments, speech defects, scoliosis, posture disorders, and neuropsychiatric deviations were processed. Descriptive statistics, linear regression for trends, and Pearson correlation (p < 0.05) were applied. Calculations were performed using IBM SPSS 25.0 and JASP 0.19.3.

Results: Examination coverage averaged 97.8 % in the pre-pandemic period, dropped to 86.6 % in 2020, and recovered to 93.9 % by 2024. Detection rates for vision impairments decreased from 229.23 to 165.03 per 10,000 (slope –8.26; p < 0.001); for scoliosis, from 32.39 to 25.44 (–1.01; p < 0.01); for posture disorders, from 45.87 to 30.98 (–1.42; p < 0.05); and for neuropsychiatric deviations, from 49.80 to 14.59 (–4.31; p < 0.001). Indicators for speech and hearing remained stable. Correlations between disorders were high (r = 0.763–0.956; p < 0.01).

Conclusions: Systemic screening effectively reduces the burden of pathologies but requires reinforcement in the post-pandemic period. A multidisciplinary approach and digitalization for regional areas are recommended.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a highly prevalent chronic disease affecting roughly half a billion people worldwide. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, official statistics indicate a prevalence of approximately 4.2 % of the population.

The purpose of the study. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of life of patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing inpatient treatment in medical centers in Almaty, Kazakhstan, using the EQ-5D-5L and EQ VAS questionnaires, which made it possible to evaluate their health profile and identify the areas most affected by the disease.

Materials and Methods. A total of 54 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in this descriptive cross-sectional study. The EQ-5D-5L profiled health across five domains (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, anxiety/depression). Subjective health status was measured with the EQ VAS (0-100). To delineate subgroups based on the degree of HRQoL decrement, we applied hierarchical cluster analysis.

Results. The most frequent limitations were observed in pain/discomfort (77.8 %), mobility (64.8 %), and anxiety/depression (53.7 %). In 87.02 ± 10.929 % of patients, health-related problems were identified, and in 72.2 ± 6.097 % combined disorders were observed. The mean Level of Health Status (LSS) score was 9.46±0.467. Cluster analysis identified three groups: high decrement (100 % impaired mobility and pain; additional impairments in usual activities, self-care, and anxiety in 43.8 %, 31.3 %, and 37.5 %, respectively); moderate-to-high decrement (anxiety 100 %; impairments in usual activities 85.7 %, pain/discomfort 64.3 %, mobility 57.1 %, self-care 35.7 %); and moderate decrement (pain/discomfort 70.8 %, mobility 45.8 %, self-care 33.3 %, anxiety 37.5 %, usual activities 33.3 %).

Conclusions. Among hospitalized patients with T2DM in Almaty, subjective health ratings were low, with pain/discomfort, mobility, and anxiety/depression exerting the greatest impact on HRQoL. These findings were consistently demonstrated by EQ-5D-5L, EQ VAS, and cluster analysis.

Water polo is a challenging aquatic sport. It requires versatile physical fitness. Intensive sports training induces specific changes in the cardiovascular system, as designated in sports medicine by the term "athletic heart." In Kazakhstan, this sport is one of the promising areas.

The purpose of the study. To examine the state of the cardiovascular system in water sports athletes, including during physical activity, using innovative technologies (HSC «Health-Express»).

Methods and Materials. This retrospective study involved 102 water polo athletes. Of these, 86 people met the inclusion criteria. The sample was formed based on selection, taking into account physical parameters, level of physical fitness, and the absence of contraindications to participation in the study.

Results. After training, female athletes exhibited higher overall heart rate variability (MxDMn, SDNN, CV, Mo) and lower regulatory system stress indicators (Amo%, SI), indicating a less stressful recovery profile compared to male athletes.

Conclusions. The study has shown that acute physical activity causes a decrease in parasympathetic activity and an increase in sympathetic activity, which is manifested in changes in key indicators of heart rate variability.

In modern society, including in the army, the role of women is growing. Women successfully master military professions and serve on an equal basis with men. However, the conditions of service – including physical strain, stress, and the peculiarities of field life – negatively impact their health, particularly affecting the reproductive system. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to maintaining women's health in the army, which is also relevant from the point of view of demographic policy.

The purpose of the study. To determine the prevalence of gynecological morbidity among female military personnel.

Materials and methods: The study was based on medical records of female servicemembers who underwent inpatient gynecological treatment at the Military Hospital in Almaty between 2021 and 2023. The structure and frequency of gynecological diseases were analyzed according to service length: less than 5 years and 5 years or more.

Results. From 2021 to 2023, the most common reproductive system disorders were pelvic inflammatory diseases, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and genital prolapse. The proportion of prolapse increased from 20.3 % to 33.1 %, while uterine fibroids remained stable at around 30 %. Inflammatory diseases decreased from 31.9 % to 27.4 %. Gynecological diseases were more frequent among women with over 5 years of military service than among those with shorter service durations.

Conclusion. Prolonged exposure to adverse military service factors increases the risk of gynecological diseases among female service members. Preventive measures and early detection of pelvic inflammatory diseases, breast pathologies, and genital prolapse are necessary. Our findings indicate the need to expand diagnostic measures within routine medical examinations to prevent these conditions.

Today, the development of pharmaceutical substances based on biologically active compounds from plants is highly relevant. In this context, it is of great importance to explore methods for the optimal extraction of biologically active substances from the raw material of the plant Euphorbia humifusa Willd., which grows in our country and is rich in biologically active compounds. Obtaining an extract that meets pharmacopoeial requirements, as well as determining the technological parameters of the plant raw material, is crucial for the research.

This scientific article presents the results of the pharmaceutical and technological parameters of the raw material from the plant Euphorbia humifusa Willd.

The purpose of this study. To determine the pharmaceutical and technological parameters of the aerial part of the plant Euphorbia humifusa Willd.

Methods and Materials. The research material consisted of the leaves and stems of Euphorbia humifusa Willd. Pharmaceutical and technological parameters of the plant raw material were determined, including specific gravity (dу, g/cm³), bulk density (d₀, g/cm³), tapped density (dH, g/cm³), porosity of the raw material, voidage of the raw material, free volume of the raw material layer (V), and the absorption coefficient of the extractant (Х, ml/g).

Results. The following parameters of the plant raw material were determined during the study: specific gravity (dу) – 1.31±0.017 g/cm³, bulk density (d₀) – 0.32±0.010 g/cm³, tapped density (dH) – 0.12±0.002 g/cm³, voidage – 0.75±0.014 g/cm³, porosity of the raw material  – 0.60±0.005 g/cm³, and free volume of the raw material layer – 0.90±0.011 g/cm³. Additionally, pharmacopeial quality indicators of the plant raw material were established: moisture content, 7.95±0.05%; total ash, 6.63±0.12%; and ash insoluble in a 10% HCl solution, 1.25±0.10%. The contents of heavy metals, such as cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic, and radionuclides, such as strontium-90 and cesium-137, in Euphorbia humifusa Willd. were within permissible limits.

Conclusion. Cadmium and mercury heavy metals were not detected in the composition of Euphorbia humifusa Willd., while the levels of lead and arsenic comply with the standards established in Pharmacopoeial Article 1.5.3.009 “Determination of Heavy Metals in Medicinal Plant Raw Materials and Herbal Preparations.”

Peritoneal metastases are a common manifestation of malignant tumor progression in various locations. Despite the availability of systemic therapy and surgical approaches, many patients continue to face unmet clinical needs, reduced quality of life, and unfavorable outcomes. In response to these limitations, pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy was developed in the early 2000s. While this technique has generated increasing clinical interest, concerns remain regarding potential occupational and environmental risks, particularly due to aerosolized exposure to cytotoxic agents.

This scoping review aimed to explore and summarize current evidence on occupational risks and safety measures implemented during pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy sessions for the treatment of peritoneal metastases. Based on available data, we also sought to identify clinical recommendations to ensure the protection of healthcare personnel and the operating room environment.

Materials and methods. Relevant publications were identified through a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and eLibrary databases. Eligible studies described the pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy method, personal and collective protective measures, or organizational recommendations for safe handling of cytostatic aerosols in the surgical setting.

Results. The search identified 185 publications, of which 37 met the inclusion criteria. The included studies mainly consisted of observational reports, experimental simulations, and institutional guidelines. Key safety measures included the use of closed aerosol delivery systems, high-efficiency ventilation, personal protective equipment, and standardized decontamination protocols. Evidence of long-term occupational risk was limited, but most studies emphasized the necessity of strict adherence to safety procedures.

Conclusions. This review contributes to the evidence base supporting the occupational and environmental safety of pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy sessions. The synthesized findings can inform the adaptation and standardization of multilayered protection strategies and training protocols for healthcare workers, thereby minimizing risks to staff and the operating environment.

For a long period of 46 years since the discovery of the hepatitis D virus antigen by M. Rizzetto in 1977, chronic hepatitis D was considered in conjunction with chronic hepatitis B, classified as chronic hepatitis B with the delta agent. As a result, both viruses were treated with the same low-efficacy therapies, primarily interferon-based treatments, including pegylated interferon-α combined with nucleoside analogues, achieving virological response rates of only around 25 %. For the first time, chronic hepatitis D was recognized as a separate disease entity from chronic hepatitis B in the first Practical Guidelines of the European Association for the Study of the Liveron the management of chronic hepatitis D, published on August 30, 2023. National Russian guidelines on chronic hepatitis D were published earlier, in 2021.

Objective: To present and analyze the first international guidelines on the management of chronic hepatitis D, and to familiarize clinicians with randomized clinical trials evaluating the use of the antiviral drug Bulevirtide in patients with chronic hepatitis D and liver cirrhosis over 10 years.

Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted using the Medline/PubMed, CyberLeninka, and eLibrary databases.

Results. Unlike chronic hepatitis B or C, liver injury in chronic hepatitis D is more severe and aggressive, with a progressive course, rapid progression to liver cirrhosis with decompensation, and a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. The global prevalence of chronic hepatitis D is heterogeneous due to population migration; according to two major meta-analyses, it is estimated to affect between 12 and 72 million people worldwide.

The use of Bulevirtide since 2014 has marked the beginning of etiological treatment for patients with chronic hepatitis D and liver cirrhosis. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Bulevirtide as monotherapy, and even greater efficacy when combined with pegylated interferon-α for 48 weeks or longer.

Conclusions. The EASL guidelines summarize the global experience in treating patients with chronic hepatitis D and liver cirrhosis using Bulevirtide. Between 2019 and 2022, Bulevirtide received regulatory approval in Russia and EU countries.

Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem in modern medicine, posing a threat to the effective prevention and treatment of an ever-increasing number of infections. One way to address this problem is to use substances that potentiate the action of previously inactive antibiotics. Potentiators represent an alternative to the development of new antibiotics. The purpose of the study. To study the potential use of substances that act as antibiotic potentiators and to evaluate the mechanisms of bacterial resistance to these substances.Materials and Methods. A systematic literature search was conducted in the international databases Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, covering publications from the past 5 years. Articles available in open access were included in the analysis, while preprints, duplicates, and overlapping publications were excluded. Inclusion criteria allowed peer-reviewed reviews and original research articles. The search for relevant publications was conducted using the keywords «antibiotic potentiator», «antibiotic adjuvant», and «antibiotic resistance». More than 1,000 articles were identified during the identification stage. Duplicate articles and publications not relevant to the study topic were excluded during screening, after which 117 articles were selected for analysis. At the final stage, 37 publications were included in the final review based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results. Data analysis showed that the use of antibiotic potentiators can resuscitate resistant bacterial strains. The most promising potentiators are those that act as membrane permeabilizers, efflux pump inhibitors, and β-lactamase inhibitors.Conclusions. Antibiotic potentiators represent an innovative approach aimed at restoring the activity of existing drugs against resistant pathogens. However, the widespread clinical adoption of potentiators is fraught with challenges (toxicity, regulatory barriers, difficulty co-delivering with antibiotics, and potential for resistance to adjuvants). To overcome these barriers, further targeted research and support from the international community are needed. Antibiotic potentiators are not just a theoretical concept, but a real tool capable of winning time in the race against superbugs.

Thyroid diseases arise from both internal and external factors. Changing environmental and radiation conditions are increasing their prevalence and altering thyroid disease patterns. This review highlights current insights into how environmental influences affect thyroid structure and function, outlining recent discoveries, mechanisms, and areas needing further research.

The purpose of the study. To review scientific literature that investigates the effects of adverse industrial environmental factors on thyroid gland function.

Materials and Methods. A search for relevant studies was conducted in electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, using specific terms and keywords. Only original observational studies examining the impact of harmful environmental factors on the development of thyroid pathology were included.

Results. High levels of heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Cd, As) are linked to increased thyroid cancer risk. In oil and gas regions, children exhibit elevated levels of manganese, boron, vanadium, and silicon in their hair, which can interfere with iodine uptake and lead to iodine deficiency. Cadmium lowers thyroid-stimulating hormone, contributing to hyperthyroidism. Radiation-exposed areas (e.g., Chernobyl, Semipalatinsk) show more nodules and autoimmune thyroiditis. Fine particles (PM2.5, PM10) increase the risk of thyroid cancer, and prenatal air pollution affects newborn T4 levels. Organic and inorganic pollutants disrupt thyroid hormone production and promote cancer.

Conclusion. Environmental contaminants, including heavy metals, radiation exposure, industrial residues and pollutants, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, play a significant role in the occurrence and progression of thyroid disorders. The rise in chronic diseases, including thyroid pathologies, serves as a marker of environmental pollution. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms by which environmental factors affect thyroid function. It is essential to develop prevention and monitoring strategies, particularly in environmentally unfavorable regions.