Ministry of Health announces new institutional cancer care initiatives

On Tuesday, Minister of Health Neofytos Charalampidis announced four major institutional interventions for cancer care during the 38th General Electoral Assembly of the Cyprus Association of Cancer Patients and Friends (PASYKAF). The announced measures include the institutionalization of palliative care, the establishment of a National Cancer Institute, the creation of a National Center for Clinical Documentation and Quality of Health Services, and new regulations for rehabilitation centers. Furthermore, the Ministry is currently implementing population-based screening programs for breast and colorectal cancer. Plans are underway to expand screening to include cervical cancer through HPV DNA testing and prostate cancer. The Ministry is also promoting HPV vaccination for both boys and girls as part of its preventative strategy. Minister Charalampidis acknowledged the work of PASYKAF, noting that the organization currently supports over 8,500 cancer patients and their families across Cyprus. The Ministry also intends to increase its participation in European cancer research and knowledge-sharing programs.