MYRTO evolves: from information to meaningful navigation

The new version of MYRTO, Kapa3’s digital assistant for people affected by cancer and their caregivers, is now live.

This update is more than a technical upgrade. It represents another step towards a different model of digital support: moving from simply providing information to supporting understanding, guidance and navigation.

For people facing cancer, the challenge is not always a lack of information. Very often, the real difficulty is understanding which information applies to them and what they need to do next.

From information to the next step

The cancer journey involves much more than diagnosis and treatment. Patients and families may also need to navigate social rights and benefits, disability assessment, transportation, employment issues, psychosocial support and communication with multiple health and public services.

Information may be available, but it is often fragmented, complex or difficult to turn into action.

This is where navigation becomes essential.

It means supporting people to access, understand, evaluate and use the information they need.

MYRTO was developed with this principle in mind: transforming complex and fragmented information into guidance that is easier to understand and act upon.

What is new in MYRTO

The renewed version offers a more direct and accessible user experience.

Users can interact by text or voice, listen to responses, choose between Greek and English, and adjust text size. Suggested topics also help people who may not know how to begin or how to formulate their question.

Particular attention is given to the sources behind the information. MYRTO follows a source-grounded and human-supervised AI approach: Artificial Intelligence supports the retrieval and organisation of information, while reliability, transparency and human oversight remain central to its design.

Technology does not replace people

MYRTO is not a doctor and does not provide personalised medical advice. It does not replace social workers, psychologists, nurses or other healthcare professionals.

Its role is to reduce complexity, support orientation and help people move closer to the appropriate information, service or human support.

The same approach applies to caregivers, who often become care coordinators, information managers and navigators of rights and services. MYRTO is also designed with their needs in mind, recognising caregivers as an essential part of the cancer journey.

Accessibility, trust and data protection

At Kapa3, we believe that digital innovation is meaningful only when it remains accessible and inclusive.

For this reason, the renewed MYRTO places emphasis on plain language, voice interaction and features that can support people with different levels of digital and health literacy.

Users are also informed about the processing of their data and the use of Artificial Intelligence, with separate consent choices and the possibility to request data deletion.

Trust in a digital health tool is not only about the answers it provides. It is also about how it works, which sources it relies on and how it respects the people who use it.

“What do I need to do next?”

Perhaps this single question best captures the philosophy behind MYRTO:

“What do I need to do next?”

A person facing cancer should not have to know in advance which organisation is responsible, where the right information is located or which administrative process needs to be followed.

They should be able to express their need and receive guidance that is reliable, understandable, accessible and human-supported.

This is the direction of the renewed MYRTO.

From information to understanding.
From understanding to navigation.
And from navigation to the next step.

Find more :

https://kapa3-cag-rag-hybrid-deploy.onrender.com

MYRTO: From Real-World Needs to European Scientific Engagement

MYRTO, the digital Social Rights Navigator developed by Kapa3, is taking an important step from real-world experience to the European scientific community, with two studies accepted for presentation at EONS and ESMO events in 2026.

The first study, “MYRTO as an AI-Supported Navigation Model for Equitable Access to Cancer Care: Real-World Needs from 1,083 Beneficiaries”, will be presented as a poster at EONS19 at ESMO 2026 in Madrid, 24–26 October 2026.

The study draws on the real-world needs of 1,083 Kapa3 beneficiaries, identifying eight key navigation areas: rights and benefits, disability certification and administrative procedures, access to health and social services, transportation and geographical barriers, employment and social protection, health and digital literacy, caregiver support, and referral to human professionals when needed.

The findings highlight that equitable access to cancer care is not only about clinical information. It also depends on people’s ability to find, understand and use reliable information during an exceptionally demanding period of their lives.

From real-world needs to technology evaluation

The second study, “Source-Based Artificial Intelligence (AI) Navigation for Fragmented Nonclinical Cancer-Support Information: Pilot Evaluation of a Human-Supervised System”, has been accepted as an e-Poster at the ESMO AI & Digital Oncology Congress 2026, taking place on 16–18 November 2026.

This study focuses on the operation and evaluation of MYRTO as a source-grounded, human-supervised AI system.

The pilot evaluation drew on 448 authoritative documents and 29,148 indexed excerpts and assessed 100 predefined questions. For all 84 answerable questions, source-supported and actionable responses were generated without modifications following Kapa3 expert review. The system also applied clarification, abstention or redirection mechanisms when evidence was insufficient or when questions involved medical advice or fell outside its intended scope.

Two studies, one shared philosophy

The two studies reflect complementary dimensions of MYRTO: the real-world needs that led to its development and the way technology is being designed to respond to those needs through evidence, clear boundaries and human supervision.

For Kapa3, Artificial Intelligence is not intended to replace human support. Its role is to contribute to more accessible, understandable and trustworthy navigation, while keeping people at the centre.

MYRTO’s presence at two major European scientific events represents another step in bringing Kapa3’s field experience into the European dialogue on equitable access, digital health and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence.

The MYRTO project is funded by the TIMA Charitable Foundation.

Find more about MYRTO https://kapa3-cag-rag-hybrid-deploy.onrender.com

Kapa3 at HDHC: Bringing the Patient Perspective to Digital Health

Networking, knowledge exchange and new opportunities for collaboration

The monthly meeting of the Hellenic Digital Health Cluster (HDHC) provided another valuable opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange and the exploration of new collaborations within the rapidly evolving digital health ecosystem.

During the meeting, representatives of three new members — Kapa3 – Cancer Guidance Center, Reformer Business Optimization, and ERGOBYTE — introduced their work, expertise and capabilities to the wider HDHC community.

Kapa3: From real patient needs to the design of solutions

Kapa3 was represented by Aristea Archontidou, who presented the organisation’s work and the experience gained through its daily support of people affected by cancer and their caregivers.

A central focus of the presentation was one of the most significant challenges people face following a cancer diagnosis: fragmented information.

Alongside their treatment journey, patients and their families are often required to navigate a complex range of social, insurance, employment and administrative issues. Finding the right information across multiple systems and public sources can become an additional burden during an already demanding period.

This challenge is particularly important for people diagnosed with cancer while still of working age. Support therefore extends beyond treatment itself and includes helping people understand and exercise their rights, maintain their social and professional lives, and access the services and benefits available to them.

The numbers reflect a real need

Kapa3’s daily experience demonstrates the scale and diversity of these needs.

Between January and July 2026, Kapa3:

handled 1,251 telephone contacts,

sent 497 emails to beneficiaries,

managed 306 requests from 241 individuals,

covering 52 different categories of need, including disability certification, social benefits and employment rights.

Behind every number is a person seeking timely, understandable and reliable guidance.

These data reinforce the need for services and tools that do not simply provide more information, but help people find, understand and use the information that is relevant to their individual situation.

MYRTO AI: Technology supporting social navigation

A key part of the presentation was dedicated to MYRTO AI, the digital Social Rights Navigator being developed by Kapa3 for people affected by cancer and their caregivers.

MYRTO is designed to provide access to information and guidance 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in Greek and English, while also supporting voice interaction.

Developed with the support of the TIMA Charitable Foundation, MYRTO builds on Kapa3’s field experience and on the real questions and needs identified through the organisation’s direct work with patients and caregivers.

Its purpose is not to replace human support. Instead, technology is being developed as an additional tool for timely, reliable and more accessible navigation, helping people understand available options and identify the appropriate pathways for further support.

From field experience to digital innovation

This is where Kapa3’s participation in HDHC becomes particularly relevant.

Digital health is not only about developing new technologies. It is also about ensuring that these technologies respond to the real needs of the people who are expected to use them.

Through its daily interaction with patients and caregivers, Kapa3 can bring the end-user perspective into the digital health ecosystem and contribute to assessing the usability, accessibility, comprehensibility and real-world value of emerging digital tools.

In this way, experience from the field can become an integral part of the innovation and design process.

European engagement and new synergies

The presentation also highlighted Kapa3’s growing European activity through its participation in projects and initiatives such as e.Health4Cancer, MELODIC, MOVE-ON and PERIFORMANCE, alongside its continued efforts to develop new partnerships through European programmes and networks.

Participation in HDHC creates another meeting point between civil society, research, technology and entrepreneurship, opening new possibilities for collaboration focused on digital health and people-centred innovation.

HDHC: Building bridges for digital health collaboration

The monthly meeting once again demonstrated the value of connecting organisations, research bodies and companies that bring different areas of expertise to a shared digital health ecosystem.

For Kapa3, participation in such a network is not only an opportunity for networking and knowledge exchange. It also provides a platform for advancing a principle that lies at the heart of our work:

digital innovation creates real value when it starts with people’s needs and returns to them in the form of meaningful, accessible and trustworthy support.

Κapa3 at IEEE CBMS 2026 | AI for Equitable Oncology Information

Kapa3 at IEEE CBMS 2026: Artificial Intelligence in Support of Equitable Patient Information in Oncology Care

New scientific publication in the Proceedings of the 39th IEEE International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems

The voice and lived experience of patients must remain at the centre of the emerging era of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.

Kapa3 – Cancer Guidance Centre contributes to a new scientific publication presented in the Proceedings of the 2026 IEEE 39th International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems (CBMS), focusing on how Artificial Intelligence and Retrieval-Augmented Generation can support more equitable, reliable and patient-centred access to information in oncology.

The paper, entitled:

“Informed, Empowered, and Heard: AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation as Tools for Equitable Patient Information in Oncology”

is authored by Lars Münter, Evangeli Bista, Maria Lavdaniti and Christos Frantzidis, with Evangeli Bista representing Kapa3 as Co-founder.

From access to information to meaningful patient empowerment

A cancer diagnosis creates an immediate need for information that is reliable, understandable and relevant to the individual patient.

At the same time, patients and their families are often expected to understand complex medical terminology, treatment options, prognosis discussions and administrative procedures at a moment of intense psychological and emotional pressure.

The paper highlights that acute stress associated with a serious diagnosis can affect working memory, attention and the ability to process new information. This means that patient information cannot be designed for an ideal, fully attentive reader; it must respond to the real cognitive and emotional conditions experienced by people facing cancer.

The key question is therefore not simply:

“How much information do we provide?”

but rather:

“Are we providing the right information, at the right time, in a form that people can understand and act upon?”

AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation: towards trustworthy and evidence-grounded information

The publication places particular emphasis on Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG).

RAG architectures combine the generative capabilities of large language models with the retrieval of information from curated and verified knowledge sources. In a healthcare setting, this can include clinical guidelines, validated patient information resources, regulatory documents and peer-reviewed literature.

This approach offers an important advantage over purely generative AI systems: responses can be grounded in identifiable sources, supporting greater transparency and enabling patients and healthcare professionals to verify where information comes from.

In oncology, this is especially important.

A patient does not simply need a quick answer. They need information that is:

accurate, current, understandable, accessible and appropriate to their individual situation.

Artificial Intelligence as a tool for equity

One of the central themes of the paper is inequality in access to high-quality oncology information.

Geography, language, socioeconomic circumstances, health literacy, digital literacy and access to specialised healthcare services can significantly influence a person’s ability to understand their diagnosis, treatment options and rights.

The publication pays particular attention to the Greek context, where patients living in large urban centres may experience a very different information environment from those living in rural, remote or island communities.

When equity is treated as a core design principle, AI-RAG systems can potentially support:

multilingual access to health information,
different levels of language and information complexity,
voice-based interfaces,
shorter and more manageable units of information,
low-bandwidth or offline-capable solutions,
and opportunities for patients to return to information when they are ready to process it.

Technology alone, however, does not create equity.

The way technology is designed determines whether it reduces existing inequalities or reproduces them.

Designed with patients, for patient needs

The paper calls for an important shift in the way digital health systems are developed.

Many traditional health information systems are designed primarily around institutional or clinical workflows, with patient-facing communication added later.

For patient-centred AI, this logic must be reversed.

Systems should be designed with patients and around patient needs, with patients and informal carers actively involved in shaping the knowledge base, the questions the system is expected to answer and the ways information is presented.

This also means moving beyond systems that simply respond to individual questions.

A meaningful AI-supported information environment could help patients prepare for clinical consultations, organise their questions, understand the next steps in their care and become more aware of their rights.

The paper highlights applications such as consultation preparation guides, question prompts before appointments and post-consultation summaries as examples of how technology can support patients before, during and after important healthcare interactions.

AI should strengthen, not replace, human relationships

Perhaps the most important message of the publication is that the transformative potential of AI in oncology is not primarily technical. It is relational.

Artificial Intelligence should not create distance between patients and healthcare professionals.

It should help strengthen their communication.

A better-informed patient can arrive at a clinical consultation more prepared, identify questions and concerns more clearly, participate more actively in shared decision-making and communicate more effectively with the healthcare team.

The same applies to informal carers, who often carry a significant part of the informational and emotional burden of cancer care.

For this reason, the paper argues that AI-RAG systems should be designed to strengthen the relationship between patients, carers and healthcare professionals, rather than to replace any part of this human network of care.

For healthcare professionals, trustworthy information systems may also reduce the time required for basic information provision, allowing more of the clinical encounter to focus on nuanced discussions, decision-making and the human aspects of care that technology cannot replicate.

From information to trust

This scientific contribution adds to an increasingly important discussion about the future of healthcare:

How can Artificial Intelligence be developed and used in ways that genuinely respond to human needs?

The answer does not lie only in more powerful AI models or larger volumes of data.

It also lies in evidence, transparency, accessibility, co-design, equity and respect for patient rights.

As the paper concludes, people affected by cancer in Greece and across Europe deserve access to information that is accurate, personalised, accessible and respectful of their rights, regardless of where they live, the language they speak or the socioeconomic resources available to them.

For Kapa3, participating in this scientific discussion also reflects a broader commitment: ensuring that real patient needs, lived experience and equitable access are represented in the design and evaluation of the next generation of digital health and AI-supported tools.

Publication details

Title: Informed, Empowered, and Heard: AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation as Tools for Equitable Patient Information in Oncology

Authors: Lars Münter, Evangeli Bista, Maria Lavdaniti, Christos Frantzidis

Published in: 2026 IEEE 39th International Symposium on Computer-Based Medical Systems (CBMS)

DOI: 10.1109/CBMS69103.2026.00302

find more 499901b523

New Scientific Publication with the Participation of Kapa3: Cancer Survivorship in the Post-COVID-19 Era

New scientific publication involving the Cancer Patient Guidance Center – Kapa3 highlights the significant psychological, social, and functional challenges that people living with and beyond cancer continue to face following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The article, entitled “Cancer Survivorship After COVID-19: Psychological Burden, Symptom Experience, and Social Support,” was published in the international peer-reviewed journal Medicina. It examines psychological distress, symptom experience, quality of life, and the protective role of social support among people affected by cancer.

What Did the Study Examine?

The research involved 162 adults diagnosed with cancer in Greece during the post-COVID-19 period. Participants completed validated questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety, stress, health-related quality of life, and perceived social support.

The results revealed a substantial and persistent psychological burden:

32.1% of participants reported severe or extremely severe depression.
40.1% reported severe or extremely severe anxiety.
29% reported severe or extremely severe stress.

The overall quality of life of participants was found to be moderate. Emotional and social functioning were among the most affected areas, while fatigue, insomnia, breathlessness, and financial difficulties emerged as some of the most significant challenges in everyday life.

The Close Relationship Between Mental Health and Quality of Life

One of the study’s key findings was the strong relationship between psychological distress and poorer quality of life.

Higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were associated with:

poorer daily and functional performance;
lower perceived overall health;
greater symptom severity;
increased difficulty in emotional and social functioning.

The results demonstrate that psychological well-being cannot be separated from the physical, social, and practical experience of cancer.

Social Support as a Protective Factor

At the same time, the study underlines the important protective role of social support.

Support from family members, friends, and other significant people was associated with better overall health and functioning, lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and reduced symptom burden.

The findings show that social connection is not simply an additional element of care. It is a meaningful component of recovery, adaptation, and quality of life throughout the cancer journey.

Cancer Survivorship Does Not End When Treatment Is Completed

The findings reinforce the need to move beyond a model of oncology care focused exclusively on treating the disease.

Cancer survivorship requires a comprehensive, person-centred approach that addresses the physical, psychological, social, functional, and financial dimensions of life with and after cancer.

Routine psychological assessment, early identification of emotional distress, timely referral to psycho-oncology services, rehabilitation, social support, and the meaningful involvement of families and caregivers should become integral parts of standard oncology care.

The study also points to the potential value of telehealth and digital support services in improving access to supportive care. At the same time, it highlights inequalities related to digital literacy, healthcare accessibility, and the ability of all patients to benefit equally from digital services.

The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that effective cancer care must be resilient, accessible, multidisciplinary, and capable of maintaining continuity even during periods of crisis.

A Calm Summer Begins with Proper Preparation Proactive Care Planning, Mental Decompression and Digital Support

Proactive Care Planning, Mental Decompression and Digital Support

Summer is a valuable opportunity for rest, renewal and quality time with the people we love. For people living with or after a cancer diagnosis, as well as for their caregivers, the possibility of enjoying a few days away from everyday life can contribute meaningfully to physical and mental well-being.

When a person’s health condition allows it, and with the agreement of the treating physician, even a short break can have a beneficial effect, enhancing quality of life and supporting the sense of returning to everyday life (Lim et al., 2022).

The quality of life of people living with or after a cancer diagnosis does not depend solely on medical treatment. Mental well-being, social support, optimism and resilience are equally important factors that facilitate adaptation to the disease and contribute to patients’ overall well-being (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022). At the same time, current guidelines underline the importance of integrated and personalised care, as well as continuous support for people living with or after cancer at every stage of their journey (Hart et al., 2024).

However, the peace of mind associated with holidays does not begin on the day of departure. It begins much earlier, through proper preparation. Practical pending issues, administrative procedures or concerns about unexpected events during the holidays can increase stress and reduce the feeling of safety. By contrast, proactive care planning allows patients to organise what is needed in advance, so that they can devote their time to rest rather than obligations.

Timely renewal of medical certificates, ensuring an adequate supply of medication for the entire period of absence, communicating with the treating physician when necessary, and keeping essential medical documents in an easily accessible format are simple but important steps of preparation. In this way, continuity of care is safeguarded, while the uncertainty that often accompanies travel is reduced.

Reliable information and timely support are key pillars of modern oncology care. When people know where they can turn and have easy access to trustworthy information, they feel safer, their autonomy is strengthened and the management of daily life becomes easier (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022; Hart et al., 2024).

In today’s world, digital tools can complement support services by facilitating access to reliable information wherever the patient may be. In this direction, Kapa3 is moving forward with the development of Myrto, the digital social navigator, designed to provide direct access to information on social rights, available services and useful guidance. In this way, it facilitates access to the organisation’s services and reliable information, contributing to better preparation before and during holidays.

For all of us at Kapa3, technology does not replace human care; it complements it. It is another means of facilitating access to trustworthy information and available services, while the Social Service and Psychological Support Service of Kapa3 remain the core pillar of holistic support for people living with cancer and their families.

Let us remember that care does not stop when holidays begin. It continues through small but meaningful acts of preparation, proper information and timely planning. Because, many times, the greatest luxury of a holiday is not the destination itself, but the feeling that we can enjoy our moments with calmness, safety and trust.

The Social Service and Psychological Support Service of Kapa3 wish everyone a safe, peaceful and refreshing summer, with health, strength and beautiful moments.

Before Leaving for Your Holidays…

✔️ Make sure you have an adequate supply of your medication for the entire period of your absence.

✔️ Check whether there are any medical certificates, prescriptions or other administrative pending issues that need to be settled in time.

✔️ Discuss with your treating physician any special instructions related to travel or movement.

✔️ Keep with you the necessary medical documents and important contact details.

✔️ Find out about available support services and make use of the Kapa3 App, so that you have easy access to useful information wherever you are.

References

Hart, N. H., Nekhlyudov, L., Smith, T. J., Yee, J., Fitch, M. I., Crawford, G. B., et al. (2024). Survivorship Care for People Affected by Advanced or Metastatic Cancer: MASCC-ASCO Standards and Practice Recommendations. JCO Oncology Practice, 20(9), 1160–1172. https://doi.org/10.1200/OP.23.00716

Lim, J. H. C., Keenan, C., & Flaherty, G. T. (2022). All My Life to Live: Travel Health Benefits and Risks for Cancer Survivors. Journal of Travel Medicine, 29(5), taac069. https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taac069

National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2024). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®): Survivorship. Version 2.2024. Plymouth Meeting, PA: National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Ruiz-Rodríguez, I., Hombrados-Mendieta, I., Melguizo-Garín, A., & Martos-Méndez, M. J. (2022). The Importance of Social Support, Optimism and Resilience on the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 833176. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

World Health Organization. (2022). World Mental Health Report: Transforming Mental Health for All. Geneva: World Health Organization.

Official Access Links

Hart et al., 2024 — MASCC-ASCO Standards:
https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/OP.23.00716

Lim et al., 2022:
https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taac069

NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Survivorship:
https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/survivorship.pdf

Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

WHO World Mental Health Report:
https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240049338

Marilia Barka
Psychology Student
Kapa3 Volunteer

www.linkedin.com/in/maria-garyfalia-marilia-barka-03825a409

Head and Neck Cancer: The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Prevention.

July 27 has been designated as World Head and Neck Cancer Day (WHNCD). The initiative was launched on July 27, 2014, during the 5th World Congress of the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncology Societies (IFHNOS) in New York, with the goal of raising awareness, education, and the
promotion of prevention. The declaration is supported by dozens of scientific communities worldwide, governments, and, most notably, the UICC (Union for International Cancer Control).

What is Head and Neck Cancer?
This type of cancer includes tumors located in the oral cavity, the lips, the pharynx, the larynx, the
salivary glands, the thyroid gland, the skin of the region, and the cervix.

In terms of prevalence, it is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. Seventy-five percent of cases are located in the mouth and pharynx, while the most common histological type is squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). For example, more specifically in Greece in 2012, 1,350 new cases were recorded, a figure that accounted for 3.3% of all new cancer diagnoses in the country.

Based on these percentages, 30% of cases occur in the tongue, 20% on the lip, 15% on the floor of the
mouth and in the larynx, and 10% in the pharynx.

Risk Factors

Understanding the factors that increase the risk is the first step towards prevention. Everyday habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, place a significant strain on the body. In particular, 70 per cent of those affected are long-term smokers, with current smokers facing a 300 per cent higher risk. When
smoking is combined with alcohol, the two have a negative synergistic effect, multiplying the likelihood of developing the disease. At the same time, in recent years there has been an increase in HPV-positive cancers, mainly of the pharynx, which often occur in younger people with no history of smoking or
alcohol consumption. Finally, it is worth noting that up to 25 per cent of cases are observed in patients who have never smoked and have no other known risk factors.

Suspicious lesions and symptoms

Delay in diagnosis is the most unfavourable prognostic factor. Conversely, 85–90 per cent of cases can be
cured if diagnosed at an early stage.

Suspected precancerous lesions

Particular care is required when identifying suspected precancerous lesions in the oral cavity. These
include leukoplakia, a white patch of unknown aetiology that does not flake off, in which, in 20–25 per
cent of cases, cancer or severe dysplasia is present. Even more dangerous is erythroplakia, where the rate
of co-occurrence with cancer or severe dysplasia reaches 90 per cent. At the same time, suspicious lesions
include punctate leukoplakia, as well as any chronic ulcer – that is, a sore that is not caused by any
obvious injury and remains unhealed for more than two weeks.

Symptoms requiring medical assessment

There are also certain suspicious symptoms that necessitate immediate assessment by a doctor. These include any unexplained swelling, lump or puffiness in the mouth or throat area, as well as persistent pain when chewing, swallowing or speaking, or pain that radiates to the ear. Furthermore, symptoms such as hoarseness, a change in the tone of the voice, and unexplained bleeding inside the mouth are signs that
should not be ignored.

Prevention and Screening
Screening is particularly important for people over the age of 45, smokers, people who drink alcohol, or
those with a history of HPV infection. Screening involves four simple steps:
1. Neck: Palpation of the lymph nodes and the thyroid gland.
2. Lips: External examination.
3. Mouth: Examination of the tongue, floor of the mouth, cheeks, gums and soft palate.
4. Pharynx: Examination of the tonsils, soft palate and base of the tongue.

The importance of early intervention

Despite advances in surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the 5-year survival rate remains at around 60 per cent. Furthermore, treatments for advanced-stage disease can affect patients’ quality of life, causing functional (difficulty speaking, chewing, swallowing and breathing), aesthetic or psychological problems.

July: Global Sarcoma Awareness Month

July has been established internationally as Sarcoma Awareness Month, a rare but particularly important group of cancers that often remains unknown to the general public. Raising awareness about sarcomas is not just about learning about a rare disease; it is about the early recognition of symptoms, access to specialized care, support for patients and their families, and the need to ensure that no one is left alone to face a difficult diagnosis.

Sarcomas are malignant tumors that develop in the tissues that support, connect, or surround organs and body parts. They can occur in muscles, fat, tendons, blood vessels, nerves, connective tissues, tissues surrounding the joints, and bones. They can occur almost anywhere in the body, with the most common sites being the extremities, the trunk, the abdomen, and the retroperitoneal space.

Despite their rarity, sarcomas are of particular importance. They account for approximately 1% of cancers in adults, while in children and adolescents the percentage is proportionally higher, reaching about 15–20% of pediatric malignancies. It is, therefore, a disease that can affect all age groups and requires increased vigilance on the part of both the general public and healthcare professionals.

One of the key characteristics of sarcomas is that, in the early stages, they may not cause severe pain or obvious symptoms. They are often noticed as a painless lump, a swelling that grows, persistent swelling, or pain that does not subside and cannot be explained by an injury. When a sarcoma develops deeper within the body—for example, in the abdomen or chest—it may go unnoticed for a longer period of time and only cause symptoms once it grows in size or presses on nearby organs, nerves, muscles, or blood vessels.

Symptoms that warrant medical evaluation include a new or growing lump, pain in bone or soft tissue, difficulty moving, persistent swelling, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, or gastrointestinal symptoms when the tumor is located internally. These symptoms do not necessarily indicate the presence of a sarcoma, but when they persist or worsen, they should not be ignored.

The diagnosis of sarcoma requires a specialized medical approach. It typically involves a clinical examination, imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan, and confirmation via biopsy. It is particularly important that the biopsy and evaluation of the sample be performed according to a proper protocol by a team with experience in sarcomas, as the accurate diagnosis of the subtype, grade, and stage of the disease has a decisive impact on the treatment strategy.

Treatment is personalized and depends on the type of sarcoma, its location, size, grade, stage, the patient’s age, and overall health. It may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, or a combination of these. Modern oncological care places particular emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration so that the patient is treated holistically rather than in a fragmented manner.

Early diagnosis, referral to specialized centers, and collaboration among different medical specialties can significantly contribute to the best possible management of the disease and the maintenance of quality of life. Advances in medicine, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, molecular diagnostics, and targeted therapies are creating new possibilities for many patients, while participation in research and clinical trials remains crucial for improving treatment options.

However, managing sarcoma is not merely a medical issue. A diagnosis of a rare cancer is often accompanied by uncertainty, delays, difficulty accessing specialized information, financial burden, psychological stress, and the need for guidance within a complex health and social protection system. For this reason, information, social support, psychosocial empowerment, and access to patients’ rights are critical components of comprehensive care.

The Cancer Patient Guidance Center – Kapa3, through its information, social guidance, and support services, stands by people affected by cancer and their families. Kapa3’s collaboration with the Hellenic Sarcoma Patients Association – Sarcoma Fighters reinforces this effort, highlighting the importance of networking, accurate information, patient advocacy, and collective action.

With the central message that no one should feel alone in the face of sarcoma, July provides an opportunity to talk more about a rare disease that needs visibility. To learn. To pay attention to our bodies. To seek medical advice when something persists. To support those who are ill. To participate in information and awareness campaigns. To promote access to early diagnosis, specialized treatment, and compassionate care.

Knowledge is no substitute for medical advice, but it can be the first step toward taking action. And when knowledge is combined with solidarity, cooperation, and access to care, it can fundamentally change a patient’s journey.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for anything you may need.

The KAPA3 team stands firmly by patients and caregivers to provide guidance and ensure their rights are protected. For any information or support, please feel free to contact us.You can contact the KAPA3 team.

13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor (Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Phone Numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170.

Email: info@kapa3.gr

Newsletter Kapa3| June 2026,From survivorship to quality of life — from information to support — from technology to human-centred care.

May was a month of important developments, scientific outreach and service enhancement for Kapa3. From the new European scientific publication of the MELODIC project and educational participation in international networks, to the development of “Myrto”, the creation of a new Psychological Support Team and support through social and corporate initiatives, Kapa3 continues to bring together knowledge, technology, human care and social action.

Our mission remains focused on equal access for cancer patients and their caregivers to information, rights, services and meaningful support.

1. June: Cancer Survivors Month

June is dedicated to people living with and beyond cancer. Survivorship is not only the end of treatment; it is continuity, adaptation, reintegration, psychosocial support, quality of life and the right to care beyond therapy.

▸ EN: https://www.kapa3.gr/en/june-cancer-survivors-month-title-sep-sitename/

2. Kapa3 Introduces Its New Psychological Support Team

On the occasion of Mental Health Awareness Month and Cancer Survivors Month, Kapa3 introduces its new Psychological Support Team: a safe space for listening, support and empowerment for patients, survivors, caregivers and families.

▸ CONTACT US https://www.kapa3.gr/en/kapa3-introduces-its-new-psychological-support-team/

3. New MELODIC Scientific Publication on the Mental Health of Young Adults with Cancer

Mental health is an integral part of cancer care, particularly for young adults facing the complex challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Kapa3 contributes to the new scientific publication of the European MELODIC project, highlighting the educational needs of healthcare professionals.

▸ READ THE ARTICLE

4. Digital Health and Cancer Survivorship: Kapa3 at the INE-CSC 2026 Conference in Coimbra

Kapa3 participated in the INE-CSC 2026 Conference in Coimbra, contributing to the European dialogue on cancer survivorship, supportive care, digital health and participatory solutions that respond to the real needs of patients and caregivers.

▸ READ THE ARTICL Ehttps://www.kapa3.gr/en/participation-in-ca21152-implementation-network-europe-for-cancer-survivorship-care/

5. Co-creating Myrto: A Digital Health and Rights Navigator for Oncology Patients

Myrto is designed as a digital health and rights navigator — a Patient Empowerment e-Navigator — that goes beyond information provision to guide, support and evolve according to users’ real needs.

▸ READ THE ARTICLE https://www.kapa3.gr/en/myrto-health-navigator-oncology-patients-greece/

6. Learning by Doing: Participation in the European Service Learning 2.0: CoLab Programme

Kapa3 participated in the European programme Service Learning 2.0: CoLab, an initiative connecting academic knowledge with meaningful social action and highlighting collaboration between universities, civil society organisations and community actors.

▸ FIND OUT MOREhttps://www.kapa3.gr/en/learning-by-doing-participation-in-the-european-service-learning-2-0-colab-programme/

7. Alpha Bank and Its Employees Support Kapa3 through the Match for Good Initiative

Through the Match for Good initiative, Alpha Bank and its employees supported Kapa3, strengthening our mission to stand alongside people affected by cancer, their families and caregivers.

▸ FIND OUT MORE https://www.kapa3.gr/en/i-alpha-bank-kai-oi-ergazomenoi-tis-stirizoyn-to-kapa3-kai-tin-isotimi-prosvasi-stin-ypostirixi-ton-ogkologikon-asthenon/

8. 6 Awards for Kapa3 at the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Crossing: Is There Such a Thing as a “Lonely Race”?

Kapa3 took part in the 4th Vouliagmeni Summer Crossing, sharing a strong message of participation, resilience, empowerment and solidarity. Even when a race seems individual, it does not have to be lonely.

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Learning by Doing: Participation in the European Service Learning 2.0: CoLab Programme

Within the framework of the European programme Service Learning 2.0: CoLab – Erasmus+ Strategic Partnerships KA2, KE: 22707, coordinated by the University of Bucharest, an online workshop and focus group was organised with civil society organisations, focusing on the educational approach of Service-Learning.

Service-Learning is a contemporary experiential learning method that combines academic knowledge with active student engagement in society. Through activities that respond to real social or environmental needs, students develop meaningful skills, strengthen their social awareness and connect theoretical learning with practical action.

The workshop brought together universities and civil society organisations from across Europe, including Université Aix-Marseille, University of Bucharest, University of Salzburg, University of Padova, Sapienza University of Rome, and Eurasianet.eu. The discussion focused on cooperation between universities and NGOs, the exchange of experiences, and the adaptation of practices that can strengthen the social impact of education.

Participation in such initiatives highlights the importance of collaboration between academia, civil society and non-profit organisations.

For Kapa3, the philosophy of Service-Learning is closely aligned with its mission: transforming knowledge into action, empowering people affected by cancer, and building bridges between education, social care and active citizenship.

Through these educational collaborations, the connection between universities and society is strengthened, while new opportunities are created for participatory learning, social innovation and meaningful support for vulnerable groups.

Find more

Flyer – Workshop_ Service Learning (2) Service-learning-key-facts (1)

Service-learning-key-facts (1)

May 27 th 2026 Workshop SL with CSOs