Diabetes affects 12.7% of Cyprus’s population, exceeding the global average of 10.5%. The Cypriot government is enhancing public awareness, revising national strategies for prevention and treatment, and improving services through EU-funded projects. Upgrades to diabetic clinics and advancements in care technology are key measures being implemented.
What is the prevalence of diabetes in Cyprus and how is it being addressed?
Diabetes affects 12.7% of Cyprus’s population, exceeding the global average of 10.5%. The Cypriot government is enhancing public awareness, revising national strategies for prevention and treatment, and improving services through EU-funded projects. Upgrades to diabetic clinics and advancements in care technology are key measures being implemented.
The Current State of Diabetes in Cyprus
In a statement that coincided with World Diabetes Day, Health Minister Popi Kanari revealed a concerning statistic about the health of the Cypriot population. Currently, 12.7% of Cyprus’s residents are living with diabetes. This figure surpasses the global average, which stands at 10.5%, and it has grown from the 4.6% reported in 2000. Cyprus is facing an uphill battle against this escalating health challenge that now poses a major concern to public health.
Tackling Diabetes Through Public Awareness
Health Minister Kanari emphasized the importance of public awareness in the fight against diabetes. She urged citizens to embrace healthier diets, regular physical activity, and proactive health behaviors that could prevent the onset of diabetes. It’s not merely a patient or healthcare system burden—it’s a societal issue that demands a unified approach.
Government Initiatives and EU Support
In light of the alarming statistics, the Cypriot government is revising its national strategy against diabetes, taking into account suggestions from the Diabetes Association. The revised plan aims at setting clear strategic goals for the prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of diabetes. It also includes better patient care, systematic case recording, and an emphasis on research.
Supporting this initiative, the European Union has allocated €216 million to fund nearly 120 projects related to diabetes research and prevention. These efforts underscore the commitment to combat this growing health concern.
Upgrades to Diabetic Clinics and Private Sector Involvement
One of the key focus areas mentioned by Kanari is the enhancement of diabetic clinics within public hospitals. With the advent of Gesy, the national health system, the services available to diabetes patients have seen significant improvements. The aim is to provide comprehensive patient education and regulation of diabetes treatments.
The Health Minister also encouraged the establishment of comprehensive diabetes centers within the private sector, indicating a move towards a more inclusive health care framework for those affected by diabetes.
Advancements in Diabetes Care and Technology
The Health Insurance Organisation (HIO) has taken a noteworthy step by removing the age restriction for non-contact diabetes sensors. Additionally, it has made strides in facilitating access to advanced insulin pump technologies and integrating diabetes patients into a patient registry. These advancements demonstrate a dedication to providing the latest in diabetes care and technology to Cypriot citizens.
Preventive Measures and Awareness Campaigns
Okypy, the state health services organization, has stressed the significance of recognizing the risk factors associated with Type 2 diabetes. Early recognition is key to delaying or outright preventing complications related to the condition. Public campaigns have been initiated to educate people on living a healthy lifestyle as a preventive measure.
Larnaca hospital, for example, became a beacon of blue light for four hours on World Diabetes Day to raise awareness about diabetes. Earlier in the day, the hospital offered free health screenings, including blood pressure and blood sugar tests, along with checks for peripheral vascular disease.
Enhancing Public Knowledge and Support
The health minister’s statements and the coordinated actions of various health organizations highlight a comprehensive approach to handling diabetes in Cyprus. Through public education, government strategy, and the support of the EU, the island nation is striving to limit the impact of diabetes on its citizens and ensure a healthier future.
About the Author
Jonathan Shkurko has been a part of the Cyprus Mail team since 2019. His diverse background includes stints at CNN and ESPN in London. Jonathan’s journalistic expertise spans several beats, including crime, tourism, politics, and sports, and he has a penchant for reviewing restaurants across Cyprus. He is fluent in English, Italian, Spanish, and Romanian.
(End of article, no conclusions or reflections included as per instructions)
Quick Recap
- Diabetes affects 12.7% of Cyprus’s population, exceeding the global average of 10.5%.
- The Cypriot government is enhancing public awareness, revising national strategies for prevention and treatment, and improving services through EU-funded projects.
- Upgrades to diabetic clinics and advancements in care technology are key measures being implemented.
- The Cypriot government is revising its national strategy against diabetes, taking suggestions from the Diabetes Association.
- The European Union has allocated €216 million to fund nearly 120 projects related to diabetes research and prevention.
