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A major step forward for pediatric cancer care in Cyprus was taken on Saturday with the signing of an agreement for the construction of a new Pediatric Oncology Clinic in Nicosia. The €10 million project, funded by the Cleanthous Foundation, aims to provide world-class treatment and research facilities, significantly improving care for children battling cancer and hematological diseases.
The agreement was signed at the Presidential Palace by Health Minister Michalis Damianos, President of the State Health Services Organisation (Okypy) Marinos Kallis, and Maria Charalambidou, President of the Cleanthous Foundation. Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides hailed the initiative as “an investment in life, hope, and the future.”
A State-of-the-Art Facility for Pediatric Cancer Treatment
The new clinic will be built on state-owned land near Makarios Hospital and will be managed by Okypy upon completion. Officials emphasized its importance as a state-of-the-art medical facility, designed to meet international standards and potentially position Cyprus as a regional center for childhood cancer treatment.
During the signing ceremony, Christodoulides praised the Cleanthous Foundation’s generosity, highlighting the significant role of its founder, Costas Cleanthous, in making this project a reality. “This contribution is not just for Cyprus but for the entire region,” he said.
Maria Charalambidou echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to enhancing Cyprus’ role in childhood cancer research. “We want to create a model Pediatric Oncology Center where children feel safe and supported, a place where they can dream, learn, grow, and above all, be cured,” she said.
Childhood Cancer in Cyprus
During his speech, Okypy President Marinos Kallis provided insight into childhood cancer cases in Cyprus. On average, 42 new cases are diagnosed annually among children and adolescents aged 0 to 19. He noted a concerning 7.6% annual increase in thyroid cancer among teenagers, particularly girls, but reassured that current statistics show a 100% cure rate for this type of cancer.
While no overall increase in childhood cancer rates has been recorded, Kallis pointed out that incidence remains high, with unknown causes. The new clinic will not only focus on treatment but also play a vital role in research to better understand and combat pediatric cancer.
A Timely and Meaningful Initiative
The agreement was signed on February 15, coinciding with International Childhood Cancer Day. In a post on X, Health Minister Michalis Damianos described the project as a “highly altruistic initiative” that will elevate the standard of pediatric oncology care in Cyprus. He expressed gratitude to Costas Cleanthous for his dedication to improving the lives of children and their families.
Construction is expected to begin soon, with officials hopeful that the clinic will open its doors in the near future, offering children battling cancer a better chance at recovery in a caring and advanced medical environment.
