Filenews 15 February 2025
The message of international cooperation and collective effort to combat childhood cancer was sent by the President of Democracy, Nikos Christodoulides, during his address at the International Conference of Experts on Childhood and Adolescence Cancer, which took place on Friday at the Presidential Palace.
The President underlined the importance of global mobilization and exchange of know-how to improve the quality of life of children suffering from cancer. "Childhood cancer knows no borders, but unfortunately access to treatment is not the same for all children. This inequality calls us to take decisive action, investing in research and international cooperation," he said.
International collaborations and initiatives
President Christodoulides said that Cyprus actively participates in international efforts to combat childhood cancer, through partnerships with organizations such as the World Health Organization, the World Paediatric Oncology Organization, the Franco-African Paediatric Oncology Group and St. Jude Hospital in the USA. These synergies aim to reduce inequalities in access to treatment and improve cure rates.
Regarding Cyprus, President presented data on the incidence of childhood cancer, noting that during the last five years, an average of 23 new cases have been recorded annually in children up to 14 years old. The most common forms of childhood cancer are leukaemias, with 42%, followed by brain and central nervous system cancers 12%, bone cancers 9% and kidney cancers (8%). Also, in the 15- to 19-year-old age group, an average of 16 new cases are recorded each year, with the most common including thyroid cancer 32%, Hodgkin's lymphomas 14% and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas 10%.
Support and upgrading of infrastructure
He made special reference to the Paediatric Oncology Clinic of Makarios Hospital, which he described as a "center of excellence", pointing out that it offers comprehensive care to children with cancer. At the same time, he reminded that the construction of a model Paediatric Oncology Hospital was recently announced, which will be funded entirely by the Cleanthus Foundation. As he said, tomorrow in a modest ceremony at the Presidential Palace the relevant agreements will be signed. "I want to publicly thank Costas Kleanthous, who through his initiative, which is not the only one, will give a new momentum, further enhancing the care of children with cancer in Cyprus," he added.
The President also referred to the financial support program for families, which covers transportation and treatment costs in specialized centers abroad. Recently, financial support for escorts of children going abroad for hospitalization was also approved.
Recognition to initiatives and organizations
The President of the Republic expressed his appreciation to those who work tirelessly to fight childhood cancer, making special reference to the "Elpida" Charity Foundation and its president, paediatrician Loizos Loizou. "Elpida's action goes beyond the borders of Cyprus and offers valuable help to hundreds of children and families," he stressed.
In closing, he underlined that health and education are the areas by which every state and international community is judged, while reiterating the Government's commitment to continue supporting children with cancer and their families.
"Let us remain committed to our common goal of a future with more health and hope for our children," President Christodoulides concluded.
