Cyprus is speeding up cancer care by enacting policies aligned with the European cancer strategy, extending public health screenings, preparing for palliative care, establishing a national cancer institute, and supporting patient reintegration through Pasykaf’s initiatives. The Minister of Health emphasized the importance of comprehensive health services and the connection between physical, mental, and social well-being in the fight against cancer, highlighting the nation’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all citizens.
What is Cyprus doing to enhance cancer care?
Cyprus is enhancing cancer care by:
- Enacting policies for cancer prevention and treatment, aligning with the European cancer strategy.
- Extending public health policies to include more comprehensive screenings.
- Preparing a legal framework for palliative care.
- Working towards establishing a national cancer institute.
- Supporting patient reintegration and continuity of care through Pasykaf’s initiatives.
Comprehensive Health Services for Cancer Patients
The state bears a significant responsibility to ensure that cancer patients, along with their families, are provided with a comprehensive array of health services. This emphasis was highlighted by the Minister of Health, Michalis Damianou, at a recent event. The event celebrated the efforts of the Pancyprian Association of Cancer Patients and Friends (Pasykaf), which has been instrumental in bringing the challenges faced by cancer patients to the forefront through its noble aims and activities.
The Minister of Health pointed out that the concept of health extends beyond just physical wellness. He underscored the integral connection between mental and social well-being. He emphasized, “Love, support, and solidarity are key elements of a balanced life, especially when it comes to our fellow human beings suffering from any form of cancer.”
Aligning With European Cancer Strategy
In line with the European strategy for cancer principles, the Ministry of Health has enacted several policies directed at both the prevention and the effective treatment of cancer. Minister Damianos mentioned the extension of the public health policy for breast cancer, now encompassing women aged 45-74. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to proactive healthcare management and prevention.
Concurrently, the Ministry is accelerating the inclusion of other public health programs. These cover screenings for various forms of cancer including colon, prostate, and cervical cancer. An active vaccination campaign against the human papilloma virus (HPV) for children of both sexes is also underway, signifying the Ministry’s dedication to combating cancer from multiple angles.
Enhancing Palliative Care and Oncology Services
Further efforts include the Ministry’s preparation of a legal framework for the provision of palliative care, highlighting the importance of end-of-life care for patients with terminal illnesses. Recognizing palliative care as a critical aspect of holistic cancer treatment demonstrates the state’s recognition of dignity and quality of life for the ailing.
Progress is also being made towards the establishment of a national cancer institute in Cyprus. This institute is envisioned to evaluate, accredit, and organize oncology services, focusing on prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and research, echoing the pillars of the EU’s cancer strategy. Such an institution would play a pivotal role in enhancing Cyprus’s capacity to address cancer effectively and would symbolize a milestone in the nation’s healthcare landscape.
Community and Continuity of Care
Pasykaf’s contribution is significantly bolstering the Ministry’s endeavors, particularly with patient reintegration programs and unwavering support for patients and their relatives. The Minister pledged the Ministry’s continuous support to the organization, through sponsorship and every possible means.
The aforementioned efforts underscore a comprehensive approach to cancer care, aiming to strike a balance between prevention, treatment, and compassionate support. By investing in such initiatives, Cyprus is not only aligning itself with European standards but also reinforcing its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all its citizens.
What is Cyprus doing to enhance cancer care?
Cyprus is enhancing cancer care by:
- Enacting policies for cancer prevention and treatment, aligning with the European cancer strategy.
- Extending public health policies to include more comprehensive screenings.
- Preparing a legal framework for palliative care.
- Working towards establishing a national cancer institute.
- Supporting patient reintegration and continuity of care through Pasykaf’s initiatives.
How is Cyprus providing comprehensive health services for cancer patients?
The Ministry of Health in Cyprus is emphasizing the provision of comprehensive health services for cancer patients, recognizing the importance of physical, mental, and social well-being in the fight against cancer. Efforts include supporting patient reintegration through initiatives like Pasykaf, which provides unwavering support to patients and their families.
How is Cyprus aligning with the European cancer strategy?
Cyprus is aligning with the European cancer strategy by enacting policies for cancer prevention and treatment, extending public health screenings, preparing for palliative care, and working towards establishing a national cancer institute. These efforts reflect a commitment to proactive healthcare management and prevention of cancer.
What efforts are being made in Cyprus to enhance palliative care and oncology services?
Cyprus is preparing a legal framework for palliative care and working towards establishing a national cancer institute to improve oncology services. The emphasis on palliative care reflects the importance of end-of-life care for cancer patients, highlighting the nation’s commitment to dignity and quality of life for those with terminal illnesses.
