Bulgaria launches health safety campaign amid consumer risks

New data from the Trend sociological agency reveals that approximately 39% of Bulgarians—nearly two million people—rarely or never consult a doctor or pharmacist before using medicines or health supplements advertised as beneficial. While 89% of respondents recognize the risks of purchasing health products from unknown websites or social media, 39% admit to buying such products without verifying the manufacturer.

In response, healthcare professionals have launched the ‘Health Without Risk’ campaign. This initiative, led by Healthcare Magazine, aims to inform the public on how to identify reliable products and avoid unregulated medicines or misleading advertisements. The campaign launch included participation from the Deputy Minister of Health and representatives from the Bulgarian Medical Union.

Separately, the Commission for Consumer Protection (CPA) has announced it will begin monitoring the pricing of over-the-counter medicines. CPA Chair Maya Manolova noted price discrepancies, highlighting that one pack of diabetes medication in Bulgaria costs 6 euros, whereas two packs in Greece cost 5.36 euros. The commission also plans to investigate unjustified price hikes at gas stations and address issues regarding debt collection firms.