Source: Ukraine: Internet: MIGnews.com.ua
Date of publication:  16 May, 2007 21:02
WWW: http://mignews.com.ua/articles/255019.html 
 
Today Donetsk has witnessed the kick-start of the nation-wide project Stop TB in Ukraine being implemented by SCM’s Corporate Foundation for Development of Ukraine.
 
The presentation also featured grand signing of the Ukraine Without TB Memorandum that provides for cooperation between the public, authorities, and businesses to combat TB epidemic. The Memorandum was signed by President of the Foundation for Development of Ukraine (MP of the 5th convocation) Rinat Akhmetov and local government of Donetsk Region.

The Memorandum sets forth principles and approaches to consolidate efforts of all stakeholders committed to tackling the TB problem. The document was endorsed following the presentation of the regional program Fighting TB Epidemic in Donetsk Region in 2007-2011. The program designed for five years was initiated by the Donetsk Regional Council, the Donetsk Regional State Administration, and the Foundation for Development of Ukraine.
 
The program includes a number of measures on TB prevention, diagnostics and treatment, as well as raising awareness about the problem and promotion of a healthy lifestyle. The regional program will be financed from three sources: UAH 50m will be provided by the Foundation for Development of Ukraine, UAH 50m – by the regional budget, and UAH 17m – by budget of cities located in Donetsk region.
 
Rinat Akhmetov told journalists that TB problem is more threatening as it seems to be. TB hit his family too. His elder brother had TB and could recover only thanks to joint efforts of his family. "Surely he was treated by the best TB-specialists", he said. 
 
"Today we have a real chance to stop the epidemic. Obviously we can defeat the disease quickly and effectively only if we do it together. For this reason, we strongly hope for support and understanding. I would like to express my gratitude to everybody, who provided the chance for the government and business to consolidate in the drive against TB epidemic for the first time in Ukraine".