A weight loss program has been launched for Nizhny Novgorod medical workers.

      On April 22, 2026, 11:25 Society In Nizhny Novgorod, the program "Start with Yourself" has been launched, which will help doctors and nurses with excess weight improve their health and reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases and type II diabetes. The project was initiated by the Ministry of Health of the Nizhny Novgorod region. The official launch took place on April 21 at the N.A. Semashko Nizhny Novgorod Regional Clinical Hospital.

      Participants will be accompanied by specialists from city medical institutions according to the protocol approved by the Ministry of Health. The program includes an assessment of individual risks, recommendations for nutrition and physical activity, work on habits, and, if necessary, medication support.

      According to research, people with clinical obesity have a 51% higher risk of stroke, more than double the risk of heart failure, and an 82% higher risk of myocardial infarction. The Ministry of Health of Russia estimates the economic losses associated with obesity at about 4% of GDP. Due to temporary disability alone, the country loses about 400 billion rubles annually. Prevention and early detection of risks help reduce the number of complications and lower treatment costs.

      "Primary care physicians are the main conduits for measures to prevent the development of chronic non-communicable diseases. Unfortunately, often giving themselves completely to their work, they forget to follow their own recommendations and may face excess weight and obesity. This choice of the program's audience helps to simultaneously support those who care for patients daily and strengthen the culture of personal example in healthcare," noted the region's Minister of Health Galina Mikhailova.

      Senator Svetlana Kirillova emphasized that the region's initiative demonstrates effective cooperation between the state and business to achieve the goals of the national project "Sustained and Active Life." This concerns increasing life expectancy and the duration of healthy life for the population.

      Previously, the most common diseases among Nizhny Novgorod residents were named.

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