Cyprus ranks first in the world as regards the longevity of people with thalassaemia, Greek Cypriot Health Minister Michalis Damianos said on Thursday, noting that this is a decisive indication of victory against the disease.
Addressing an event marking the World Thalassaemia Day, Damianos said that “once upon a time Cyprus was helpless against thalassemia” adding however that through a collective effort the country contributed in changing the course of the disease.
He referred in particular to the crucial role played by patients’ associations such as the Cyprus Thalassaemia Association as well as the Thalassaemia International Federation, which has been based in the country since 1986.
Today, TIF brings together over 230 patients associations from over 65 countries, allowing us to share the Cypriot experience and support millions of people around the world. It constitutes “justifiably a point of reference, a model of cooperation and a beacon of hope,” he noted.
The Minister also referred to the establishment of the National Thalassaemia Committee in 2017, an initiative of the Health Ministry “to ensure that every decision and every new practice is scientifically proven and focuses on the patient.”
Due to the innovative prevention programme which was implemented in 1981, he added, “Cyprus managed to reduce affected births by over 80%.” At the same time, Damianos added the quality of life of patients has recorded “a remarkable progress”. Many people with thalassaemia have finished tertiary education and have successfully entered the job market, he said.
“Our country holds today the first place as regard the longevity of people with thalassaemia, a decisive indicator of victory against the disease, but also a reminder that new, complex challenges emerge which demand adaptation and scientific innovation, particularly within the framework of GGS.”
( Source : CNA )
