Cyprus to roll out national prostate screening in 2027
A nationwide programme would send testing reminders to men, much like women receive invitations for mammograms. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men on the island.
Cyprus is preparing a state-run screening programme for prostate cancer, with rollout expected in 2027, radiation oncologist Dimitrios Vomvas told Phileleftheros. Men would be notified and invited for testing on the same principle that brings women in for mammograms.
According to the Cyprus Cancer Registry, 726 new prostate cancer cases were logged on average each year between 2021 and 2023, and in 2024 the disease ranked second among cancer causes of death for men. Under the plan, an algorithm drawn up with the Cyprus Urological Association would guide GPs and urologists.
Vomvas, who works at the Bank of Cyprus Oncology Centre and is vice-president of the Cyprus Oncology Society, noted that free access to GPs since the GHS launch in 2019 has already let men add a PSA test to routine blood work. Early detection matters, he said, because
“someone can be fully cured”when the disease is found at an early stage.
What it means for residents
For now there is no invitation system, so men living in Cyprus have to take the initiative themselves. The good news is that a PSA test is already within reach through a personal doctor under the GHS, without waiting for 2027.
- Know your start age. International guidance puts the first test at 50, or 45 if a father, brother or other close relative has had prostate cancer.
- Book through your GP. Ask for a PSA test to be added to your regular blood work; if levels are raised, a urologist takes it from there.
- Watch for the reminders. Once the programme launches, keep your contact details with your doctor up to date so the notification reaches you.
This text is written from the source article and is not a translation of it.
