Author: k3-editor

April: Awareness Month for Head & Neck Cancer and Testicular Cancer

April has been internationally recognized as an awareness month for two important types of cancer: head and neck cancer and testicular cancer. Education and prevention are critical, as early diagnosis can save lives and significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Although these cancers are often overlooked in public discussions, raising awareness helps reduce delayed diagnoses and strengthens preventive measures. Society is encouraged to participate actively in awareness campaigns, speak openly about risks, and promote prevention across all age groups.

Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer includes tumors that occur in the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, nasal cavities, and paranasal sinuses. According to the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), approximately 150,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in Europe, with 70% affecting men. In Greece, it is estimated that over 3,500 new cases occur each year, primarily in people aged 50+, while incidence among younger patients is increasing due to HPV infection.

Risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sun exposure for certain skin cancers of the face, and HPV. Symptoms that should not be ignored include persistent sore throat, voice changes, non-healing sores, neck lumps, and difficulty swallowing. Early recognition of these symptoms and regular check-ups with a specialist significantly improve survival chances, exceeding 80% when diagnosed early. Additionally, regular dental exams and HPV vaccination are recommended preventive measures.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is rare but primarily affects young men aged 20 to 40. Awareness is critical, as early detection is associated with survival rates of up to 95% in early stages. In Greece, approximately 300–400 new cases are reported annually. Risk factors include history of undescended testicles (cryptorchidism), family history of testicular cancer, and certain genetic conditions.

Self-examination is the most effective method for early detection: men are encouraged to regularly check their testicles for lumps, changes in size, or texture. Education about self-examination reduces fear and promotes early consultation with a physician. Early medical intervention and imaging tests contribute to complete treatment, often without requiring radical surgery, allowing patients to return quickly to normal activities.

The prevention and education are our strongest weapons against cancer. Through awareness initiatives, like those organized by Kapa3, people learn to recognize early symptoms, seek timely medical advice, and rely on professionals and organizations offering counseling and support. Knowledge saves lives, and active participation can make a difference, strengthening a culture of prevention and personal responsibility for health.

Sources / Learn More:

• April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month — Testicular Cancer Foundation
https://www.testicularcancer.org/april-testicular-cancer-awareness-month/

• Testicular Cancer Statistics — Johns Hopkins Medicine
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/testicular-cancer/testicular-cancer-statistics

• Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month — AwarenessDays.com
https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/head-and-neck-cancer-awareness-month/

• Head and Neck Cancers Epidemiology — World Cancer Report (NCBI)
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606499/

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

New National Patient Registry for Hospital-at-Home Care (NOSPI)

Patient care at home in Greece is becoming more organized and secure with the establishment of the National Registry of Patients Receiving Hospital-at-Home Care (NOSPI), as published in Government Gazette 1995/07.04.2026. The NOSPI program is already in pilot implementation at selected hospitals nationwide, with the goal of full development and operation by the end of 2026, including a digital platform and patient registry.

The new registry aims to systematically record patients receiving NOSPI services, ensuring that care is tailored to individual therapeutic needs. Patient groups eligible for inclusion include, among others, those with tracheostomies, on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, receiving long-term oxygen therapy, on parenteral or gastrostomy feeding, as well as those requiring intensive physiotherapy or mobility rehabilitation. Currently, enrollment primarily focuses on children with severe health conditions and chronically ill patients needing pulmonary care, in collaboration with pilot Reference Centers.

While the NOSPI program is already operating in a pilot phase, universal access for all patients in the country has not yet been achieved. Its development is gradual, with full operation—including digital infrastructure and registry-based documentation—planned by the end of 2026. Strengthening Hospital-at-Home care enables better monitoring and improvement of home care services for patients with long-term needs.

Through the registry, authorities can collect accurate and essential health data, enhancing the quality of services and supporting the design of targeted health policies. Implementation respects personal data protection in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring transparency and public trust.

For families and caregivers, patient enrollment in the NOSPI National Registry means access to more coordinated care, with support delivered directly to their homes. Furthermore, documentation helps evaluate and improve home nursing services, enhancing patient safety and quality of life.

This initiative, combined with the development of the digital platform and registry, aims not only to upgrade home care services but also to reduce hospital congestion and ensure high-quality services for all patients in the future.

Sources (text in Greek) : Government Gazette NOSPI, ODIPY

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

World Health Day 2026: Together for Health, Guided by Science

Every year, on April 7th, the World Health Organization (WHO) reminds us through World Health Day that health is a fundamental human right. World Health Day 2026 highlights, through its central message “Together for health. Stand with science”, the importance of scientific knowledge, research, and collaboration as key pillars for a fairer and more effective health system.

In an era where information is more accessible than ever—but not always reliable—science remains the solid foundation on which modern healthcare is built. This is not merely theoretical knowledge but a dynamic system grounded in data, clinical studies, and continuous evaluation. Thanks to science, recent years have seen significant advances in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of serious illnesses such as cancer, improving both survival rates and patients’ quality of life.

However, this progress is not equally accessible to everyone. In Greece, health inequalities remain pronounced and multifactorial. A significant proportion of citizens report not receiving the necessary medical care due to cost, geographical limitations, or long waiting times, while nearly 1 in 10 households faces severe financial burden from healthcare expenses. Residents of remote areas often need to travel to major urban centers to access specialized services.

At the same time, innovative treatments already available in other European countries may take considerable time to reach Greek patients, limiting timely access to the benefits of scientific progress. This unequal access clearly demonstrates that science, however vital, is not enough on its own—it requires the right mechanisms to ensure its benefits reach everyone.

In this context, technology can serve as a bridge. Artificial intelligence (AI), when based on scientifically validated data, can play a key role in providing accurate and reliable information, reducing misinformation, and improving access to support. Kapa3’s digital assistant, Myrto, is one such example, bringing scientific knowledge closer to patients and supporting their daily needs, always in complement to healthcare professionals.

“Stand with science” therefore means not only trusting science but actively applying it in everyday life. It means seeking reliable information, using modern tools grounded in data, and advocating for equal access to innovations that can improve patients’ lives.

At Kapa3, this commitment is reflected through continuous updates on advances in oncology, new therapeutic approaches, innovative care practices, as well as through collaborations, participation in initiatives, and European programs such as MELODIC. (You can explore related articles here, here, and here.)

World Health Day 2026 offers a valuable opportunity to reflect not only on the achievements of science but also on the challenges that remain. By investing in knowledge, strengthening collaboration, and reducing inequalities, we can shape a health system that is more accessible, fair, and humane for all.

Health should not depend on where one lives, what one knows, or what one can afford. Science exists—the key is to make it reach everyone.
In this context, to “stand with science” ultimately means standing with every person in need of care.

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

 

Sources:

Kapa3 in the second half of March – Early April: Access, Innovation and Support

During the second half of March and the first days of April, Kapa3 continued to strengthen access to care for people living with cancer and their families, connecting innovation with meaningful, human-centred support.

Patient Rights

Recent changes in the distribution of high-cost medicines (FYK) through EOPYY and private pharmacies are reshaping how patients access their treatment. Kapa3 supports patients and caregivers by providing clear information, helping them navigate procedures more effectively and ensuring continuity of care.

Digital Health & Public Services

Digital governance in Greece is entering a new phase, with the mandatory acceptance of electronic documents by public sector bodies. The use of qualified electronic signatures and seals gives documents full legal validity, simplifying processes and significantly reducing bureaucracy for patients and healthcare professionals.

Actions & Events

Kapa3 actively participated in the 6th Nursing Two-Day Conference of Western Macedonia, focusing on the balance between technology and human connection in healthcare. The organisation highlighted the importance of patient navigation, digital health, and the voice of patients and caregivers in shaping a more accessible and human-centred care system.

In addition, through an interview on DION TV, Kapa3 emphasised the role of social support in practice, underlining that effective support goes beyond information — it includes guidance, understanding, and presence within a complex healthcare system. The discussion also introduced “Myrto”, the digital assistant being developed to support patients and caregivers in their daily needs.

Collaborations

Kapa3 joined the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC), strengthening its connection with innovation, technology, and a growing network of organisations, businesses, and research institutions. This collaboration enhances opportunities for more coordinated, modern, and accessible healthcare services.

Awareness

On the occasion of World Social Work Day (March 27), the critical role of social workers in healthcare and oncology was highlighted. Despite their recognised importance, gaps and inequalities in social services continue to affect access to care, making the strengthening of community-based support essential.

Support Our Work

A new collection of handmade scarves, wraps, and shawls brings a touch of spring while supporting a meaningful cause. Created using techniques such as low immersion dyeing and botanical (eco) printing, each piece is unique.

Leaves, flowers, and natural dyes are imprinted on the fabrics, creating one-of-a-kind designs. From silk scarves made from Greek silk to lightweight wraps, each item combines elegance with authenticity.

With every purchase, you actively support Kapa3’s initiatives for people living with cancer and their families.

Kapa3 remains active, promoting support and accessibility in care — more updates are on the way.

Wrap Yourself in Spring. A small act of care, a one-of-a-kind piece.

Spring is a season of renewal — a time of light, color, and a desire for change.
This year, Kapa3 invites you to wear it — quite literally. A collection of handmade scarves, wraps, and shawls brings spring closer than ever. Created using techniques such as low immersion dyeing and botanical (eco) printing, each piece is truly one of a kind.

Leaves, flowers, and natural dyes derived from plants, fruits, and even tree bark leave their imprint on the fabrics, creating patterns that can never be replicated. No two scarves are the same — each one carries the care and attention with which it was made.

From silk scarves made of Greek silk to lightweight wraps in viscose, gauze, or blended fabrics, this collection combines elegance with authenticity. Every purchase directly supports the work of Kapa3 and its initiatives for people facing cancer and their families.

Each scarf is more than just an accessory: it is a small act of care that you can wear or offer as a gift to the women you love — partners, mothers, daughters, grandmothers, friends, colleagues.

With every purchase, we become part of a community that supports, cares, and shares moments of solidarity. The power of small acts is greater than we imagine.

The collection is limited — a total of 19 unique pieces are available.

Availability & Purchase Information

For more information and orders, please contact Kapa3:
– via email at info@kapa3.gr
– by phone at +30 690 6265170

(Please include the product code when placing your order)

Available Pieces

Each piece is unique and corresponds to the photo that accompanies it.

Low immersion dyeing technique

LID-01 – Viscose wrap
Dimensions: 210 × 70 cm 

 

Price: 30€

LID-02 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm

Price: 24€

LID-03 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm

 
Price: 24€

LID-04 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm


Price: 24€

LID-05 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm


Price: 24€

LID-06 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk), shibori technique
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm


Price: 24€

LID-07 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm

 
Price: 24€

LID-08 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm


Price: 24€

LID-09 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 27 × 114 cm 

 
Price: 24€

Botanical (eco) printing technique

BOT-01 – Viscose wrap
Dimensions: 184 × 68 cm

  

   

Price: 36€

BOT-02 – Viscose wrap
Dimensions: 197 × 65 cm 

 


Price: 36€

BOT-03 – Viscose wrap
Dimensions: 196 × 68 cm 

 
Price: 36€

BOT-04 – Viscose wrap
Dimensions: 187 × 65 cm

 
Price: 36€

BOT-05 – Gauze wrap
Dimensions: 217 × 80 cm

 
Price: 40€

BOT-06 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 114 × 27 cm

 
Price: 30€

BOT-07 – Silk narrow scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 114 × 27 cm


Price: 30€

BOT-08 – Silk square scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 50 × 50 cm

   
Price: 30€

BOT-09 – Silk square scarf (Greek silk)
Dimensions: 50 × 50 cm

   
Price: 30€

BOT-10 – Blended fabric wrap (cotton, linen & polyester)
Dimensions: 162 × 48 cm

 
Price: 24€

The scarves are created by the brand Zoe and the Dog (@Zoeandthedog).

This spring, let’s wear something beautiful — and meaningful.

Text: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

The digital transformation of documents

Greece is advancing in digital governance with Law 4727/2020, making it mandatory for public authorities to accept electronic documents bearing an approved electronic signature or electronic stamp. This means citizens and businesses no longer need to submit paper forms or collect physical signatures for documents to be legally recognized.

What are approved electronic signatures and stamps?
Approved signatures and stamps confirm the authenticity and legal validity of documents. Certificates, applications, or contracts with these digital markers are recognized by all public and judicial authorities, as well as by private entities, without additional procedures.

Easy verification and security
Documents issued through the Unified Digital Government Portal (gov.gr) carry a unique verification code and can be checked online using either the verification code or QR code. This provides added security and transparency while reducing the risk of fraudulent documents.

Practical benefits for citizens and businesses
Digital documents simplify administrative processes and save time, enabling citizens and businesses to focus on essential tasks instead of bureaucratic procedures. At the same time, the reliability and legal validity of documents are preserved across public and private sectors.

The new reality
Mandatory acceptance of electronic documents marks another step toward a modern, user-friendly, and transparent administration, where citizens can trust that their documents are recognized, whether digital or printed. The digitalization of documents also promotes efficiency, security, and accessibility, enhancing daily interactions with public authorities.

The adoption of electronic documents is a major step toward a paperless, fast, and secure workflow. It ensures compliance with national laws while making government services more approachable and easier to navigate for everyone.

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Expansion of High-Cost Medicines Available Through EOPYY Private Pharmacies – What Changes for Patients

The Hellenic National Organization for the Provision of Health Services (EOPYY) is expanding the list of new high-cost medicines available through private EOPYY pharmacies, facilitating patient access to high-cost treatments. The recent decision was published in the Government Gazette.

This development represents another step toward simplifying patient access to high-cost therapies, reducing the need for physical visits to EOPYY pharmacies.

The new regulation includes the addition of further medicines, broadening the scope of the measure. Among these are treatments for multiple sclerosis, such as the active substance ocrelizumab, as well as anticancer agents like imatinib and capecitabine, widely used in oncology. This expansion is expected to significantly benefit more patients, who until now had to be served through specific distribution points, often facing longer waiting times. Patients will gain convenience and improved continuity of care, as access to treatments becomes faster and more reliable.

The option to collect medicines from private EOPYY pharmacies is expected to substantially improve patients’ daily lives, reducing hassle and enhancing accessibility, especially for those with chronic or serious conditions. This change is also part of the broader digital transformation of health services, aiming for a more flexible and patient-centered system. Healthcare providers will be able to monitor medicine distribution more efficiently, ensuring timely support and guidance for patients throughout their treatment.

According to the Government Gazette:

The start date of the medicine distribution process, with supply by EOPYY and final delivery at the private pharmacy specified in ministerial decision EΑLE/GΠ/oικ.51724/19-11-2025, as listed in the table below, is set as the date when EOPYY’s upgraded electronic platform (fyk.eopyy.gov.gr) becomes fully operational for the submission of patient requests under the new procedure defined in the above ministerial decision.

You can read the Government Gazette here (greek text)

Read our previous articles on the HCM procedure here and here

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Kapa3 joins the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC)

The Cancer Patient Guidance Center – Kapa3 is pleased to announce its participation in the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC), strengthening its connection with the Greek digital health ecosystem.

The Kapa3 HDHC collaboration marks the organization’s active integration into a dynamic innovation network. Through this partnership, Kapa3 gains access to a network of 47 innovative organizations, as well as the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), aiming to enhance the quality of support services for cancer patients.

The HDHC brings together and connects leading organizations, businesses, and research institutions in the field of digital health in Greece, providing a framework for networking, collaborations, and innovative projects, as well as access to funding and investment opportunities. Its mission is to empower the Greek digital health ecosystem, with the goal of positioning Greece among the leading countries in the sector internationally within the next decade.

Through its participation in HDHC, Kapa3 further strengthens its mission to support cancer patients by adopting modern, technology-driven approaches and innovative practices. As a member, the organization gains the opportunity to take part in events, working groups, and collaborative initiatives, while fostering the exchange of knowledge and expertise with other stakeholders in the ecosystem.

At the same time, this participation creates opportunities for Kapa3 to actively contribute to the development of a sustainable and forward-looking digital health ecosystem in Greece, promoting collaboration, innovation, and shared perspectives towards institutional strengthening of the sector. It also provides access to emerging technologies and best practices that can improve patient experience and enhance the effectiveness of care services.

Through this collaboration, Kapa3 reinforces its role as an organization that connects cancer patient support with the ongoing developments in digital health in Greece and internationally, building bridges between care, technology, and innovation for the community it serves.

You can download our Press Release here 

Text: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Kapa3 at the “Facing the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence” Event

On March 11, 2026, Kapa3 co-founder Evangeli Bista and the organization’s collaborator, Christos Frantzidis, senior lecturer at the School of Computer Science, University of Lincoln, attended with keen interest the event “Facing the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence”, organized by diaNEOsis at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center Lighthouse, marking 10 years of the organization’s work.

The event highlighted, through presentations and discussions, key topics regarding Artificial Intelligence (AI), including: what AI is and the concerns it raises, social impacts and inequalities it may create, ethical and responsible use, effects on work and productivity, and the challenges in legislation and technology regulation.

As Evangeli Bista noted on her social media, AI remains a field full of questions:

  • What exactly is Artificial Intelligence?
  • What concerns are emerging around it?

“Technology without thought can reinforce the greatest inequalities,” she emphasized, adding that the conversation on ethical and scientifically informed access to technology remains open. The event offered the chance to see “the next day… through the eyes of those who pioneered it,” such as Joseph Sifakis (Turing Award 2007) and Christos Papadimitriou.

Kapa3’s participation focused on observing, absorbing knowledge, and supporting dialogue around the challenges and opportunities of AI, with particular attention to the social dimension and the inequalities it may create.

By attending this event, Kapa3 continues to demonstrate its commitment to technological developments, the importance of informed and responsible discussion, and understanding the social and ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence.