Pneumology – the most dynamic medical specialty of the century, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic

Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy hosted the first National Congress of Pneumology - a multidisciplinary event that brought together doctors and scientific researchers-pulmonologists, internists, family doctors, cardiologists, surgeons, and oncologists, as well as other highly qualified specialists. The forum was organized between November 14-16, 2025, by the Discipline of Pneumology and Allergology within the Department of Internal Medicine, in partnership with Chiril Draganiuc Institute of Pneumology and the Coalition for Respiratory Health from Moldova, with the support of the European Society of Respiratory Diseases, the Global Allergy & Airways Patient Platform (GAAPP) and the Romanian Society of Pneumology.

"Today we are required not only to treat, but also to inform, offer hope, innovate and build a solid knowledge network," stated University Professor Alexandru Corlateanu, Head of the Discipline of Pneumology and Allergology, moderator of the event. According to the professor, pulmonology is one of the most dynamic specialties of the 21st century, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and in the conditions of climate change, which determines the increase in the number of chronic respiratory diseases.

The inauguration was also attended by Minister of Health of the Republic of Moldova Emil Ceban, who stressed the importance of research and continuing medical education, as well as the authorities' commitment to supporting professional excellence. "Pneumology is an essential field of the health system, especially in the current context, in which respiratory diseases continue to have a significant impact on public health. A deep understanding of these conditions, the application of the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies, as well as the development of a multidisciplinary approach are objectives that require close cooperation between specialists, researchers and medical institutions," the official emphasized. The Ministry of Health supports initiatives that promote research, continuing medical education and international collaboration, which constitute the basis of a modern and efficient health system.

First Vice-Rector Olga Cernetchi, Vice-Rector for Teaching and Academic Management, highlighted that respiratory pathologies (bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, as well as acute respiratory infections) affect a significant number of people, having an impact on the quality of life and longevity of the population. "The prevalence of smoking, exposure to atmospheric pollutants and unfavorable professional conditions maintain the incidence of these diseases at a worrying level. In this context, strengthening clinical skills, intensifying research and integrating modern standards become strategic objectives for reducing the impact of these pathologies in our country. Responsibility for the education and refresher training of specialists in the field of respiratory diseases lies with Nicolae Testemitanu University, including the Discipline of Pneumology and Allergology. The current team, coordinated by Professor Alexandru Corlateanu, trains a new generation of specialists with a European vision, who develop international partnerships, and the standards of the European Society and the Romanian Society of Pneumology are integrated into national practice", Professor Olga Cernetchi mentioned. 

At the same time, the first vice-rector mentioned the contribution of university professors who laid the foundations of modern pulmonology in the Republic of Moldova. Among them are: Professor Victor Botnaru - a prominent figure of the national school of pulmonology, author of fundamental textbooks and trainer of several generations of specialists, Professor Constantin Iavorschi - a highly competent researcher and mentor in the field of phthisiopneumology, Professor Aurelia Ustian who, through her devotion to the phthisiopneumology service and Alma Mater, contributes significantly to the training of young doctors.

Florin-Dumitru Mihaltan, president of the Romanian Society of Pneumology, guest of honor of the forum, emphasized "through this first congress we are opening a new path in pneumology research, and the Romanian Society of Pneumology is by our side to create new development opportunities. The universe of pneumology starts with over a hundred diseases, and at the end of this event we will realize that we have opened a true "Pandora's box". We will continue to organize and participate in numerous scientific activities, including international symposia, to support the progress of the field". 

Over 600 specialists participated in this scientific event, including experts from Romania, Belgium, Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, Greece, Germany and the United States of America, contributing to the exchange of experience and the strengthening of international collaboration in the field of respiratory health. 

The First National Congress of Pneumology is part of the series of events dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the founding of Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy.