Approximately 2,500 people in Cyprus are battling Multiple Sclerosis (MS), with a strong support system in place to aid in their fight. The country offers early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and advanced therapies, collaborating with institutions such as the Ministry of Health and patient associations to improve the lives of those living with MS.
Avraam Elias, the director of the paediatric department at Makarios hospital, urges the public to vaccinate their children as measles cases surge in Europe, emphasizing the importance of achieving a 95% vaccination rate to ensure herd immunity and prevent outbreaks. With the MMR vaccine playing a crucial role in safeguarding against measles and its severe complications, the ethical responsibility to community health underscores the necessity of vaccination.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare at the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING), enhancing precision medicine through datadriven strategies. Through the Department of Bioinformatics (CBIG), AI is advancing early diagnosis, effective prognoses, and drug discovery, transforming patient care and reshaping the understanding and treatment of diseases through bioinformatics.
Thyroid cancer poses a significant threat to women’s health, particularly in Cyprus where it ranks as the second most common cancer among women. Early detection through selfexams and medical checkups is crucial, as symptoms can include a neck lump, hoarseness, and low energy levels. Taking proactive steps to mitigate risks, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and monitoring for symptoms, can help in preventing and treating this disease effectively.
Child cancer charities are raising alarms over the potential health risks posed by the construction at Makarios Children’s Hospital in Nicosia. Concerns include dangers of dust, toxic gases, and microparticles that could lead to serious infections like aspergillosis, especially for immunocompromised patients postbone marrow transplant. They are demanding a redesign or halting of construction until safety measures are put in place.
High blood pressure is a significant health issue in Cyprus, affecting nearly one in three people. The prevalence increases with age, particularly in those in their 60s, where two out of three individuals are impacted by hypertension.
Larnaca health officials are ramping up efforts to combat the Aedes aegypti mosquito by conducting extensive spraying in critical areas and targeting potential breeding grounds like rainwater grates and construction sites. Residents are being educated on eliminating breeding sites and urged to maintain cleanliness to control the mosquito population.
Haemoglobin disorders like betathalassemia are a significant health challenge in Cyprus, affecting around 1,400 individuals. Genetics and migration patterns impact the prevalence, with betathalassemia major and intermedia leading to anaemia requiring blood transfusions. World Thalassemia Day emphasizes the need for equitable treatment and global awareness to support those living with these conditions.
Illegal hair transplant operations in Northern Cyprus have raised serious health concerns, with unauthorized clinics offering risky procedures by untrained individuals. A recent crackdown by authorities revealed the dangers of such practices, emphasizing the importance of seeking treatments from licensed professionals to ensure patient safety.
In Cyprus, healthcareassociated infections are prevalent, with a rate of 13.8%, the highest in the European Union. Effective infection control measures and responsible antimicrobial use are crucial to address this critical challenge and improve patient safety.
