President Nikos Christodoulides has called for greater international collaboration in the fight against childhood cancer on Friday, emphasising the need for equal access to treatment for all children, regardless of their location or financial status.

Speaking at the International Conference of Experts on Childhood and Adolescent Cancer, held at the presidential palace, Christodoulides highlighted the stark disparities in cancer care worldwide. 

“Childhood cancer knows no borders, but access to treatment does,” he said.

“This inequality is unacceptable, and we have a duty to act decisively, collectively, and through innovation and global cooperation.”

The President reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to the global fight against paediatric cancer, working alongside major organisations such as the world health organisation (WHO), the international society of paediatric oncology, and the St Jude children’s research hospital in the United States. These collaborations aim to eliminate disparities in care and improve survival rates for children worldwide.

“Through our partnerships, we are working to bridge the gaps in access to treatment and to raise cure rates for children affected by cancer,” Christodoulides stated.

He also drew parallels with the Covid-19 pandemic, stressing how international cooperation had been key to overcoming challenges. 

“The lesson from the pandemic is clear – collaboration saves lives. We must apply the same determination to childhood cancer.”

In Cyprus, the fight against childhood cancer has seen steady progress. Over the past five years, the country has recorded an average of 23 new cases annually in children up to 14 years old, with leukaemia being the most common type (42 per cent), followed by brain and central nervous system tumours (12 per cent) and bone cancers (9 per cent). Among teenagers aged 15 to 19, an average of 16 new cases are reported each year, with thyroid cancer (32 per cent) and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (14 per cent) being the most prevalent.

Cyprus is home to the Paediatric Oncology Clinic at Makarios Hospital, which President Christodoulides praised as a centre of excellence. The clinic provides specialised care, equipped with modern facilities for young patients and their families.

Further strengthening its commitment, Cyprus is set to establish an innovative paediatric oncology hospital, funded entirely by the Kleanthous Foundation. 

“This initiative will provide a new dynamic in paediatric cancer care,” the President noted, extending his gratitude to Kostas Kleanthous for his philanthropic efforts.

Beyond local efforts, Cyprus also funds the transfer of patients to specialist centres abroad when necessary. Recognising the financial burden on families, the government has recently approved economic support for caregivers accompanying children overseas for treatment.

“Healthcare and education are the two pillars by which a country is judged,” Christodoulides remarked. 

“We are committed to ensuring that all our citizens, even in the most remote villages, have equal access to these fundamental rights.”

The president paid special tribute to Dr Loizos Loizou, a leading paediatric oncologist and president of the Elpida foundation, which provides essential support to children with cancer. Describing him as one of Cyprus’ “greatest ambassadors in paediatric care,” Christodoulides praised his lifelong dedication to saving young lives.

“The greatest remedy is love and humanity, and Dr Loizou embodies both,” he said.

Closing his speech, Christodoulides urged global leaders, medical professionals, and philanthropists to maintain momentum in tackling childhood cancer. 

“Every step forward brings us closer to better treatments and higher survival rates. Let us stay united in this mission.”