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06-04-2024 19:46

Address by the Minister of Health, Mr Michael Damianos, at the 29th International Cardiology Congress

It is with pleasure that today I address the 29th International Cardiology Congress organised by the Cyprus Cardiology Society. This annual Conference has proven to be a great success over the years. It is one of the largest and most renowned scientific occasions and undoubtedly the most important event in the field of Cardiology in our country.

The Cyprus Cardiology Society has contributed tremendously in improving the quality of services provided to Cypriot cardiac patients. Since its foundation in 1977, it has been promoting principles of Medical Science through a variety of scientific events for health professionals and public awareness events.

This year’s conference is addressing topics related to prevention of sudden cardiac death. Topics to be presented and discussed relate to heart failure, valvular heart disease, cardiomyopathy, mitral valve insufficiency, ventricular arrhythmias, interventional cardiology, etc. It is important to take timely measures in order to prevent and treat heart diseases that may ultimately lead to sudden cardiac death.

Sudden cardiac death is considered an unexpected death that occurs to someone who appears healthy or may be suffering from a chronic illness, but at the time is in stable condition. Sudden is defined as a death that occurs within one (1) hour of the onset of symptoms. According to statistics from death certificates published by the Health Monitoring Unit of the Ministry of Health, a total of 17 sudden cardiac deaths have been reported during the period 2020-2022.

Continual training and education of doctors and other health professionals is essential for the early prevention of sudden death. The possibility of sharing knowledge and best practices as well as new technology are vital in order to keep our health professionals up to date for the most effective interventions in the field of emergency cardiology. Participants in this Scientific Conference will have the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with other participants to update their diagnostic and therapeutic approach.

This Cardiology Conference has undoubtedly great scientific, educational and professional value. Moreover, this event is of particular national importance, because it strengthens ties between our country and other participating countries.

Dear friends,

According to epidemiological data, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality, both in our country and in Europe. The Ministry of Health is responsible for the implementation of prevention programmes and for providing information and educational programmes for patients as well as ensuring universal and equitable access to essential medical services.

It is worth noting that we set up a committee of specialists who assess complex medical cases that cannot be treated within the General Healthcare System. These special and complex cases can be referred to specialised medical centres abroad.

Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to congratulate the Cyprus Cardiology Society for the excellent organisation of this Conference and I wish you every success with it.

I would also like to extend a warm welcome to all distinguished scientists from abroad who participate in this event and I wish you a pleasant stay in our beautiful island. I further wish that you have productive meetings during this conference.

Finally, I would like to assure you of the ongoing support of the Ministry of Health to all cardiac patients and to the important scientific work of the Cyprus Cardiology Society. 

(DC/MS