The National Blood Strategy was presented in Nicosia as a key reform to improve blood services in Cyprus, Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides announced at a World Voluntary Blood Donor Day workshop. The strategy prioritizes patient safety, blood adequacy and quality, as well as the protection of donors and recipients, aiming to build a resilient blood system.

Highlighting Cyprus' strong tradition of voluntary blood donation, the minister expressed gratitude to donors and emphasized the country's high transfusion demand due to a large population with thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and other chronic conditions. The strategy will focus on better stock monitoring, improved coordination among services, and the integration of modern technology.

Charalambides stressed that successful implementation will depend on collaboration among the health ministry, blood banks, healthcare professionals, patient groups, and volunteers. The ministry plans to carefully review the strategy with the guidance of patient needs and scientific evidence before moving forward with its execution.