Press Release

On 22 April 2026, the Cyprus Association for Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease (PA.SY.E.K.K.) held a meeting with the Parliamentary Representative of AKEL at the party’s offices.

Representing PA.SY.E.K.K. were Ms. Natasa Theodosiou (President), Mr. Simos Katsouris (Vice President), Ms. Yiola Damianou (Treasurer), and Ms. Athina Spanou (Administrative Officer).

Representing AKEL were Mr. Giorgos Loukaides (Parliamentary Representative), Ms. Stavroula Chatzigianni (Coordinator and Member of the AKEL Health Office – Parliamentary Associate), and Dr. Vasilis Vasileiadis (Anesthesiologist).

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss longstanding issues affecting both the Association and individuals living with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), as well as to promote objectives aimed at improving the quality of life of patients in Cyprus.

During the meeting, the following issues were discussed, among others:

• Establishment of an IBD Gastroenterology Clinic or an IBD Day Care Unit in a public hospital
• De Minimis State Aid Scheme
• Introduction of special leave provisions for chronic patients receiving immunosuppressive or biological treatment
• Provision of disability benefits for severe patient cases who are unable to work, have undergone surgical procedures, or do not respond adequately to their treatments
• Coverage of nutritional supplements and vitamins (such as Vitamin D, B12, etc.)
• Reduction of water and electricity bills for chronic patients
• Recognition of “invisible disability” across all government services and ministries
• Proper composition of Medical Boards, with the mandatory participation of a gastroenterologist
• Inclusion of biological drug level and antibody testing under the Health Insurance Organisation (HIO), a request pending since 2020

The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere, with a shared understanding of the need to effectively advance solutions to the above issues for the benefit of patients living with IBD.

PA.SY.E.K.K. will continue its efforts and interventions with the aim of improving the living conditions and care of individuals living with these conditions in Cyprus.