Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), a leading biopharmaceutical company with a dominant position in immuno-oncology, held a press conference in Cyprus on April 29, 2025, where eminent pathologists-oncologists discussed the importance of harnessing innovative immuno-oncology therapies to improve the care of oncology patients and the importance of ensuring their timely access to innovative treatments. The event was moderated by Eleni Demetriou, Director of the Oncology Department of BMS Greece and Cyprus.

Despite the fact that approximately 4,600 new cases of cancer are diagnosed in Cyprus every year, mortality rates remain comparatively low compared to the European Union. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), this is due to the increasing effectiveness of innovative therapies, which contribute to prolonging and improving the quality of life of patients.

George Tsiakalakis, Director of Market Access & Corporate Affairs of BMS Greece & Cyprus, outlined BMS’ footprint in cancer treatment. “Bristol Myers Squibb is working with a vision to revolutionise cancer treatment through innovative immuno-oncology therapies. It is a promise to improve the health of every person and an investment to save precious resources for the wellbeing of every country,” he said. “Inspired by the achievements of immuno-oncology, we are optimistic that with the continued collaboration of the scientific community, the State and stakeholders, we will establish a modern and sustainable system of oncology care that increases patient survival and reduces the financial burden on patients and the health system.”

Dr George Tsironis, Pathologist-Oncologist, Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre, stressed the critical importance of early diagnosis of cancer and highlighted the benefits of screening programmes and regular medical examinations, which increase the chances of successful treatment and reduce the need for aggressive treatments. As an example, he cited low-dose CT scans for people at high risk of lung cancer.

Dr Harris Charalambous, Clinical Oncologist, Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre, spoke about immunotherapy in lung cancer, the challenges and scientific developments. He noted that innovative immunotherapies have tripled survival rates in non-small cell lung cancer, compared to traditional treatments, adding that targeted therapies have opened up new avenues in the treatment of lung cancer.

Referring to gastrointestinal cancer, Dr Dimitris Papamichael, Pathologist-Oncologist, Director of Pathology Oncology, Department of Pathology Oncology, Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre, described the significant evolution of treatments over the last five decades. He highlighted that immunotherapy has radically changed the therapeutic landscape, offering significant survival benefit and solutions to diseases that were previously difficult to treat.

Dr George Astras, Pathologist-Oncologist, Professor of Oncology at the European University, spoke about the dramatic 10-fold increase in five-year survival for melanoma patients, thanks to immuno-oncology. He noted that melanoma was the springboard for the development of immuno-oncology 15 years ago, and that new drug combinations now offer important treatment options.

Dr George Ioannidis, Pathologist-Oncologist, Director of the Oncology Department of the Nicosia General Hospital, stressed the importance of adhering to international and local treatment guidelines. He noted that these guidelines ensure minimisation of risks and adverse events, improved quality of life for patients, uniformity in care practices, cost containment and continuous updating of knowledge. The guidelines support healthcare professionals in making informed decisions on diagnosis, staging and treatment options.

Marios Kouloumas, Honorary President of the Federation of Cyprus Patients’ Associations, shared his personal experience and the Federation’s long-standing efforts to defend patients’ rights, and securing their unhindered access to innovative therapies that change therapeutic management and treatment of serious, chronic and rare conditions. Despite being diagnosed with a chronic condition at a young age, he dedicated 23 years to the patients’ movement, contributing to the implementation of national health insurance GESY, a historic social reform for Cyprus.

About Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company with a mission to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help treat serious diseases effectively. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit www.bms-greece.gr