From May 26 to June 2, 2024, as part of the implementation of the UNFPA country program for 2021-2025, Dr. Joachim Zimmermann, UNFPA international consultant from Germany, visited Turkmenistan. Zimmermann's mission was aimed at assessing existing cytological research practices and training national specialists in cytology methods.

Cytology is the science that studies cells, their structure, functions, and pathological changes. In medical practice, cytological research is a crucial diagnostic method, especially in cervical cancer screening. Screening through cytological research allows for the detection of precancerous changes and early stages of cancer, significantly increasing the chances of successful treatment and reducing mortality from this disease. Cytology also helps identify other serious diseases, such as breast cancer and colorectal cancer, thus playing a key role in protecting women's health.

As part of his mission, Dr. Zimmermann visited several medical institutions in Turkmenistan, where he assessed existing cytological research practices. As a result of this work, recommendations were developed to improve these practices, which will enhance the quality and effectiveness of screening. In particular, national specialists agreed with the expert's recommendations to introduce human papillomavirus (HPV) testing into screening practices, as HPV is associated with the development of cervical cancer.

Additionally, during the conducted training sessions, Dr. Zimmermann taught national specialists modern cytology methods, which contributed to increasing their professional competence and awareness. This training was an important step towards strengthening the national capacity for cervical cancer and other disease screening.

UNFPA continues to support Turkmenistan in implementing programs to improve women's health by providing the necessary resources, expertise, and training.

For additional information, please contact the UNFPA representative in Turkmenistan: Kemal Goshliyev, goshliyev@unfpa.org; +99312488326

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Dr. Joachim Zimmermann-Marroquin, born on August 2, 1956, in Mexico City, holds a medical degree from the Universidad San Carlos in Guatemala and completed additional medical training at Case Western Reserve University in the USA. He has been practicing medicine since 1983 and has extensive experience in both surgery and gynecology. He received his certification as a surgeon in 1991 and as a gynecologist in 1996, along with specialized training in gynecological exfoliative cytology.

Throughout his career, Dr. Zimmermann has worked in various medical institutions, including private practice and medical centers for cytology and laboratory medicine. He has also served as a consultant for several international medical companies. Dr. Zimmermann is fluent in German, Spanish, and English, and his broad experience and international practice make him a valuable specialist in the fields of gynecology and cytology.