Because of a drought, Russia's crop harvest this year is expected to be the worst in more than 30 years. The grain harvest is expected to be down by 40 percent-the smallest harvest since 1957. Potatoes, an important staple food in the Russian diet, grew poorly, producing a yield low in both number and quality. The sugar beet harvest dipped only slightly from last year, which was the worst in 30 years. Medical care is no better under these circumstances.
Hospitals now ask patients to bring their own syringes and drugs.
The country imports 82 percent of its medicines. There are shortages in pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals. Diabetics soon may be without insulin. A shortage of film means doctors will limit X-rays. Dr. Bill Becknell heads up Agape Medical Center based in Moscow.