Press Releases

It is both an honour and a great pleasure to welcome you all to the 19th International Conference on Perinatal Medicine, here in the beautiful coastal city of Limassol. As Minister of Health, I am proud that Cyprus is hosting such a distinguished assembly of medical experts, researchers, and policymakers who share a common mission to improve the health and well-being of mothers, newborns, and families worldwide.

The programme includes a wide range of topics about Perinatal Medicine given by experts in their respective fields. These topics include Endometriosis, Caesarean section, Intrapartum care, Management of Prematurity and many more.

This conference is more than just an academic gathering; it is a testament to the collective dedication of the global medical community to advancing the field of Perinatal Medicine. It is a moment for us to reflect on progress, to exchange knowledge, and to set new milestones in our shared journey towards safer pregnancies, healthier newborns, and stronger healthcare systems.

The perinatal period, the weeks before and after birth is a defining window of opportunity, one that can shape the health trajectory of an individual for life. The quality of care provided during this critical time not only influences survival but also affects long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Ensuring that every newborn gets the best possible start in life is not just a medical responsibility; it is a human right and a cornerstone of public health.

In recent years, the landscape of perinatal medicine has witnessed remarkable progress. Advances in neonatal care, maternal-foetal medicine, and technological innovations have transformed how we diagnose, treat, and manage complications during pregnancy and childbirth. However, significant challenges remain ranging from preterm births and perinatal mortality to disparities in access to quality care across different regions of the world.

We are proud to share with you the current Infant Mortality Rate for Cyprus in 2023 which is 2.873 deaths per 1000 live births, a 2.58% decline from 2024. We are also aware of the declining fertility rate in Cyprus (Total Fertility Rate 1.4 per live births) so measures are being taken to encourage an increase in the birth rate through support for future parents. The Ministry of Health plays a significant role in the economic support of couples seeking assisted fertility.

Perinatal health is at the heart of a strong and resilient healthcare system. The quality of care provided to mothers and newborns not only determines individual health outcomes but also contributes to the well-being and prosperity of entire societies. Ensuring that every newborn gets the best possible start in life is both a moral responsibility and a public health priority.

Here in Cyprus, we recognize that Maternal and Child Health must remain a top priority within our national healthcare strategy.  Mothers and babies now have equal access to maternity and child services throughout Cyprus. We have a strong primary healthcare infrastructure and community paediatricians within the General Healthcare System (GHS) offer comprehensive child healthcare services and they are present during the birth of newborn babies to provide any necessary resuscitation.  Regular and close monitoring of child development is carried out.  Our children enjoy a high percentage of vaccination coverage through good access to their primary care paediatricians.

Through very active national committees like the National Committee for the Promotion of Normal Vaginal Birth. Cyprus has harnessed the expertise of many health professionals and patient associations to promote safety and dignity and minimal intervention during birth and to reduce the number of Caesarean sections in the population. Based on   recommendations from WHO and International Federation of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians, Cyprus is promoting improvements in perinatal care through the implementation of protocols and involving all key actors in the field of perinatal medicine.

In parallel, concerted efforts are under way to promote breast feeding and to create favourable environments for breast feeding in the workplace through coordinated actions by the National Committee promoting Breast Feeding. Cyprus has actively supported the ‘Baby Buddy’ initiative which is a UK based digital platform which enhances parental health literacy. Training sessions are organised for Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and a strong participation by parent’s associations has been secured.

The Association of Midwives and the School Health Services play an important role in providing health promotion and Pre-natal Educational Sessions for future parents through free pre-natal classes. Health professionals from the School Health Services conduct interactive educational sessions for schoolchildren and adolescents on topics including breast feeding, sexual health, contraception, healthy nutrition and lifestyle. The goal of the School Health Services is to promote maternal and child health through raising awareness and training.

Plans are in motion for the renovation and expansion of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Archbishop Makarios Hospital in Nicosia. This project coordinated by the State Hospital Services Organisation is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Regular training programmes are organised for our healthcare professionals to ensure that doctors, midwives, and nurses are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in perinatal medicine.

The Ministry of Health cooperates with State Hospital Services and Scientific Communities actively contributed towards the development of specialised paediatric emergency services in Nicosia General Hospital and plans are underway to open a new paediatric emergency care unit beside the casualty department of Limassol General Hospital. The Special Care Baby Unit has undergone recent development and enlargement and training sessions for staff is arranged on a regular basis.

Events like this conference remind us that medicine knows no borders. The challenges we face in perinatal health whether in Europe, Asia, Africa, or the Americas are interconnected, and so too must be our shared solutions. The spirit of global collaboration and knowledge exchange is what makes gatherings like this so valuable.

As Minister of Health, I reaffirm Cyprus' commitment to strengthening maternal and neonatal healthcare, investing in evidence-based policies, and ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices. We recognize the importance of integrated care approaches, and we are dedicated to fostering international cooperation in this vital area.

I extend my appreciation to the organizing committee, speakers, and all participants for their dedication and hard work in making this event possible. Your contributions to perinatal medicine not only save lives but also inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.

I encourage all of you over the next few days to engage in meaningful discussions, challenge existing practices, and explore new frontiers in perinatal medicine. Let us push forward with innovative solutions, evidence-based policies, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that no mother or newborn is left behind.

(DC)