The Cyprus Oncology Society (Oek) on Wednesday threw its support behind the inclusion of a National Cancer Institute in the health ministry’s 2024 budget.

Referring to statements made the previous day by the Cyprus patient associations’ federation (Osak)’s cancer committee, Oek said it supports the National Cancer Society’s efforts to organise and coordinate oncology services and activities following the 2019 national cancer strategy.

Oek added that it expects the creation of a National Cancer Institute will help improve all pillars related to cancer, such as prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, palliative care, research and education, serving in the best possible way patients and their relatives, health professionals and the researchers.

Finally, Oek said that bearing in mind the above, it expects the state, political parties and all relevant agencies and organisations to support the efforts to establish a National Cancer Institute.