President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides on Saturday announced a monthly allowance for vulnerable patients with breast cancer for the duration of their treatment and for up to 12 months after its completion, as well as free transport for patients from remote areas of the Nicosia district to oncology centres.
Addressing the Pink Silhouettes March at the old GSP stadium in Nicosia, President Christodoulides said both measures had been proposed by Europa Donna Cyprus and that the state had decided to implement them.
‘The most important thing, as I promised at the first march I attended, is that each time we move forward with new policies to announce,’ he said.
The President said that tackling cancer involves not only diagnosis but also the quality and speed of treatment, stressing that these should not depend on where patients live or on their financial circumstances.
He also underlined the need for a holistic approach covering rehabilitation, psychological support and assistance for patients returning to work and everyday life.
Referring to the establishment of the National Cancer Institute and the appointment of its first Board of Directors, Christodoulides said they would contribute significantly to implementing such an approach, covering prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, research, rehabilitation and follow-up after treatment.
The President described Europa Donna Cyprus as a partner and ally of the state, expressing confidence that their cooperation would be further strengthened through the operation of the National Cancer Institute.
He also made particular reference to Stella Kyriakides, a founding member and President of Europa Donna Cyprus, former EU Health Commissioner, whom he described as a symbol of Europa Donna Cyprus, noting that she has been campaigning for many years for people affected by cancer.
‘My dear Stella, we honour you and thank you for everything you have offered and continue to offer,’ he said.
Europa Donna Cyprus is an independent, non-profit organisation and member of Europa Donna – The European Breast Cancer Coalition, which consists of 47 member countries. The Organisation aims to provide support services to patients with breast cancer and gynaecological cancer, to assert patients’ rights, as well as to raise public awareness, contributing to prevention, early diagnosis and optimal treatment.
Its primary objective is to raise awareness of breast and gynaecological cancers, and encourage people to advocate for improved education, appropriate screening, optimal treatment and increased funding for research.