Marija Babunovska

I am driven by the desire to create new knowledge, improve the lives of my patients, make a positive impact through my work, keep my mind sharp and to make my regular work routine more exciting.

Marija Babunovska, MD, is a neurologist at the University Clinic for Neurology, Ss Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje in North Macedonia. She is also pursuing a PhD degree in the field of neurology, with her research focusing on bone health in individuals diagnosed with epilepsy. 

Her interest in science began in high school, with a special focus on chemistry and biology. Combined with her passion for helping others and a desire to make a positive impact on people's health, a career in medicine was the perfect choice.

She was lucky to start her professional journey as a resident and now as a neurologist in the Department of Epilepsy, working under the guidance of Professor Emilija Cvetkovska, who encouraged her to develop new ideas and persevere in her clinical and research work.

And how lucky she did! Her latest research aims to demonstrate that epilepsy patients have an increased prevalence of bone fractures when compared to matched comparators. These data were clear for all age groups, genders, and fracture sites. 

This study adds comprehensive information about fractures in people with epilepsy that may help to establish an effective prevention. Although improved seizure control appears the most effective way to reduce risks, preventive measures to improve bone health need to be included.

To balance work and leisure she loves to travel, dive, spend time in nature, hike, and hang out with boyfriend and friends.