We, the undersigned, as the founding members of the H2S in Balneology Global Initiative, united by our shared vision and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and practical applications of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in Balneology, hereby declare the official establishment of this initiative.

Preamble

Recognizing the growing body of scientific evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of H2S in mineral waters, peloids, gases and other natural balneological sources, we, as professionals from diverse backgrounds in medicine, balneotherapy and health resort medicine and related scientific disciplines, have come together to foster international collaboration, research, and the application of H2S in health and wellness.

H2S, a naturally occurring gas with a distinctive sulfuric odor, is an important component of many therapeutic spa interventions worldwide. It is known for its biochemical properties and potential health benefits, particularly in improving chronic health conditions, promoting health and quality of life, and enhancing overall well-being.

Purpose and Objectives

The primary goals of the H2S in Balneology Global Initiative are to:

1. Promote and support scientific research on H2S in Balneology, focusing on its biological, medical, and therapeutic effects.

2. Facilitate international collaboration between scientists, medical professionals, spa managers, and institutions with balneological H2S resources.

3. Raise awareness of the benefits of H2S-based therapeutics in the treatment and rehabilitation of diverse conditions and promoting wellness through educational activities, publications, and conferences.

4. Advocate for standardizing practices in managing H2S-rich natural resources, ensuring sustainability and ethical use in spa and thermal balnear centers worldwide.

5. Support the development of professional training programs for practitioners and researchers working with H2S.

Vision

Our vision is to establish a global network of experts and institutions dedicated to the study and application of H2S in medical balneology for treatment and rehabilitation, contributing to improving health outcomes through evidence-based practices.

Commitments

As founding members, we commit to working collaboratively and transparently to achieve the initiative’s goals. We pledge to promote interdisciplinary cooperation, uphold the highest ethical standards, and contribute actively to the advancement of knowledge in the field of H2S in balneology.

We invite professionals, researchers, and institutions worldwide to join us in this mission and support the initiative through active participation and collaboration.

Founding Members

The following individuals, experts in their respective fields, proudly declare the foundation of the H2S in Balneology Global Initiative:

Müfit Zeki Karagülle,  Turkey

Mine Karagülle, Turkey

Aleksandar Jokić, Serbia

José M. Carbajo, Spain

Constantin Munteanu, Romania

Todorka Sokrateva, Bulgaria

Fausto Bonsignori, Italy

Csaba Kovács, Hungary

Davide Rossi, Italy

Jasmina Milovanovic-Arsic, Serbia

During the first official meeting of the H2S Global Initiative, was established:

President of H2S Global Initiative: Prof. Müfit Zeki Karagülle, Turkey

Vice-President of H2S Global Initiative: Prim. Dr. Aleksandar Jokić, Serbia

Secretary General of H2S Global Initiative: Assoc. Prof. Constantin Munteanu, Romania

Deputy Secretary General of H2S Global Initiative: Asist. Prof. Todorka Sokrateva, Bulgaria

PDF version