Filenews 29 April 2024
The provision of the full range of health services is an obligation of the state towards cancer patients and their families, said the Minister of Health, Michalis Damianos, in his address at a charity event organized by the Pancyprian Association of Cancer Patients and Friends (PASYKAF), noting that his concern is the welfare of the citizen.
In his address, on behalf of the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, the Minister of Health wished "every success" to the work of the Pancyprian Association of Cancer Patients and Friends, which, as he said, "over time, through the noble goals it sets and the actions it undertakes, comes to raise our awareness even more on issues related to cancer".
In this context, he pointed out the importance of health as a concept that is not limited to physical well-being, "but is also closely linked to our mental and social well-being". "Love, compassion and solidarity are key elements of a balanced life, especially when it comes to fellow human beings suffering from any form of cancer," he added.
"It is up to us," he said, "to support those struggling with this disease, and I am proud that the Ministry of Health is actively contributing to this effort." In particular, he noted, the Ministry of Health, following the basic principles of the European Cancer Strategy, implements such health policies aimed at preventing and effectively treating the disease." In particular, he added. As far as the population program for breast cancer is concerned, it has been extended in age and covers women from 45-74 years old all over Cyprus.
At the same time, he said, the Ministry of Health is initiating the inclusion of other population programs such as the detection of colorectal cancer, prostate cancer and cervical cancer, while the preventive vaccination program of children for the human papillomavirus-HPV is being implemented in both sexes.
"Another important effort of the Ministry is the preparation of the framework law for the provision of palliative care services to suffering patients," the Minister of Health said. He noted that the creation of the National Cancer Institute is also being promoted, which, among other things, as he said, will have the responsibility to proceed with the evaluation, accreditation and organization of all oncology services, focusing on the main pillars of action of prevention, early diagnosis-treatment, research as described in the National Cancer Strategy.
"The provision of the full range of health services is an obligation of the state towards cancer patients and their families," said Mr. Damianou, noting that PASYKAF's contribution, "especially through the reintegration programs it offers, but also through the continuous offer of supportive care to patients and their relatives, contributes to the strengthening of the efforts made by the Ministry of Health." For this reason, he said, the Ministry of Health, recognizing PASYKAF's work, supports him, supporting him financially through the sponsorship it pays.
The Minister thanked PASYKAF for its contribution and support in this effort, assuring that the Ministry will continue to support its efforts "in every possible way". In closing, Mr. Damianou said that the axis of his Ministry always remains the citizen and his concern is his well-being.
CNA
