hiv/aids Archives - New Cyprus Magazine

Reflecting on the Struggles and Advancements in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Cyprus

Despite advancements in treatment and diagnosis rates, individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Cyprus continue to face discrimination and a lack of quality of life. Calls for state action and policy reform have been made to protect the rights and dignity of patients, with the hope of eliminating stigma and prejudice surrounding the illness. The reconstitution of the National AIDS Committee and the involvement of the Health Ministry have brought about positive changes, but it is crucial for Cyprus to continue fostering initiatives and policies that support those affected by HIV/AIDS.

The Struggle for Quality of Life Among HIV-Positive Individuals in Cyprus

By Demis Papadopoulos

HIVpositive individuals in Cyprus face significant challenges, including social stigma and discrimination that impact employment and social integration. Despite medical progress, they contend with selfrejection, reduced quality of life, and inadequate healthcare resources, like the understaffed Gregoriou clinic. Financial strains also exist, with calls to increase government benefits to support patient dignity.

Seropositive Individuals: Overcoming Challenges in Cyprus

By Demis Papadopoulos

Seropositive individuals in Cyprus face challenges such as a lack of medical personnel, social stigma, and limited accessibility to antiretroviral treatment. Proposed solutions include hiring more specialists, reactivating a national committee for HIV prevention, establishing a national registry for HIV, revising laws, extending treatment duration to six months, providing treatment at local hospitals, protecting patient data, and improving infrastructure. AKEL recently visited the Gregorio Clinic and identified issues in staffing and education. Parliamentary oversight is seeking clarification on patient treatment and laws labeling HIV as a “dangerous infectious disease.” The Ministry of Health is considering extending antiretroviral treatment and improving accessibility to treatment.