Cyprus health minister calls for increased investment in disease prevention

On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the 12th public health conference was held in Nicosia, Cyprus. During the event, Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides, speaking on behalf of President Nikos Christodoulides, emphasized that investing in preventative measures is essential for managing the rising burden of chronic diseases on families and the national healthcare system.

The minister stated that effective policy requires a shift in focus toward long-term care, beginning well before the onset of illnesses. Key elements of this strategy include the early identification of risk factors, timely intervention, and better coordination between government ministries, local authorities, and social partners. Charalambides highlighted that lifestyle factors—such as smoking, nutrition, and exercise—are influenced by the individual's environment, necessitating a multi-sectoral approach to public health rather than relying solely on the healthcare sector.

Moving forward, the ministry aims to strengthen primary healthcare through systematic monitoring by general practitioners. This is expected to facilitate personalized guidance and early detection, ensuring that preventative efforts support individuals across all stages of life to reduce the impact of chronic conditions.