Category: health education

Continuing the Journey: Online Group Sessions for Mental Health and Nutrition – Third Cycle with Kapa3 and the LB.H.Sc

Following the warm response to the second cycle of meetings (see the related article here ), focusing on Nutritional Guidance and Experiential Psychological Support, Kapa3 and the Laboratory of Basic Health Sciences (LB.H.Sc), Department of Nursing University of Peloponnese are delighted to continue their collaboration with a third series of online group sessions for mental health and nutrition, dedicated to the holistic care of body and mind, designed for people living with cancer and their caregivers.

In this third cycle, mental health and nutrition are approached as two complementary sides of the same care.

The mental health sessions help participants recognize and manage challenging emotions such as anxiety, fear, sadness, or guilt, strengthen resilience, and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and others.

The nutrition sessions explore how mindful and balanced eating can support the body, improve energy and mood, and become a meaningful act of self-care. Food is not only a necessity but also a way to nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

Program of Online Sessions for Mental Health and Nutrition & Themes

  • Saturday, February 28, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Myths and truths about “anti-cancer” diets. How to evaluate nutritional information and avoid risky practices.

  • Saturday, March 14, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Stress and uncertainty: practical ways to manage them during treatments and exams.

  • Saturday, March 21, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Giving space to emotions without being overwhelmed: recognizing and expressing fear, anger, sadness, and guilt.

  • Saturday, March 28, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Nutritional support during treatment & the role of cachexia.

  • Saturday, April 25, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Boundaries without guilt: protecting energy and mental resilience.

  • Saturday, May 9, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Safe cooking practices & kitchen hygiene.

  • Saturday, May 23, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    Family and illness: changes in relationships and ways to support each other.

  • Saturday, June 6, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    The Tree of Life: who I am beyond the illness.

  • Saturday, June 13, 2026, 17:30–19:00
    What gives meaning to life now: discovering small but meaningful elements that sustain us.

Format & Participation

The meetings are held online, based on dialogue, experiential learning, and the sharing of personal experiences. Everyone participates at their own pace, in a warm environment of acceptance and trust. Consistent attendance helps build safety and confidence within the group.

To express your interest or join the first session of the third cycle (Saturday, February 28, 17:30–19:00): [Registration Link]

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Holistic Cancer Care: Successful Webinar on Cancer, Patient Navigation & Health Management

The webinar “Cancer, Patient Navigation & Health Management: From Prevention to Life Coordination” was successfully completed, presenting contemporary challenges and practices in holistic oncology care, patient navigation, and patients’ digital literacy.

The online educational initiative, organized by René Descartes College in collaboration with the Kapa3 Cancer Patient Guidance Center, highlighted the importance of a human-centered approach to cancer, patient navigation, digital innovation, and the enhancement of patients’ digital literacy, combining scientific knowledge with practical support at every stage of the disease.

Holistic cancer care integrates scientific knowledge with practical support at all stages of the disease, enhancing patient engagement and quality of life.

During the webinar, the speakers shared valuable insights and experiences:

Maria Gazouli, PhD – Professor of Biology-Genetics-Nanomedicine:
She emphasized that cancer is a chronic, multifactorial disease where quality of life is as important as survival. The holistic approach treats the person as a whole—physically, psychologically, socially, and environmentally—and requires an interdisciplinary team with active patient participation in every decision. She highlighted the importance of personalized medicine and the role of family support.

Dr. Christos A. Frantzidis – Assistant Professor, University of Lincoln:
He presented CREATE, a comprehensive digital system that transforms patients’ daily experiences into valuable knowledge for clinicians, supporting timely interventions and personalized care. He stressed that artificial intelligence does not replace humans but assists clinicians in safe decision-making, reduces workload, and improves patients’ quality of life.

Dr. Maria Lavdaniti, PhD – Professor of Clinical Nursing, International Hellenic University (IHU):
She underscored the critical role of the oncology nurse in administering therapies, managing symptoms, and providing psychosocial support to patients and their families. She emphasized the importance of continuous patient education, managing long-term side effects, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve quality of life.

Dr. Vasiliki Kapaki – Professor of Health Economics, René Descartes College:
She highlighted the role of technology in oncology, from prevention and screening to treatment and post-therapy care. She stressed that digital literacy is a prerequisite for health equity, enabling patients to understand risks, participate in decision-making, and safely follow their therapeutic pathways.

Evangelia Bista, PhD, Co-Founder of Kapa3:
She presented the work and mission of Kapa3, which supports over 7,000 families and 1,500 patients in Greece, offering guidance, information on patients’ rights, psychological support, and personalized digital tools. Her presentation included the main pillars of Kapa3’s work—website, request management, educational programs—as well as the organization’s 2026 action plans, such as Wellness in Motion, Cancer Wellness Open House Day, and digital innovations with AI and personalized service systems.

Ms. Bista highlighted that upgraded digital services with AI tools, such as Myrto, the first digital assistant/chatbot in Greece, part of Kapa3’s 2026 projects, will enable personalized services based on patient profiles, streamline processes, and reduce bureaucracy. It is clear that, combined with human guidance, the development of digital literacy is a key tool for equitable access, quality of life, and active patient engagement throughout the disease.

The webinar concluded with an open discussion and Q&A, giving participants the opportunity to interact with the speakers and exchange experiences. The initiative emphasized that technology and digital literacy do not replace humans but enhance guidance, safety, and equity in care, while holistic care remains at the center of every initiative.

We sincerely thank René Descartes College for hosting and flawlessly organizing the event, as well as all the outstanding speakers for sharing their knowledge and inspiration with the audience.

You can find some screenshots from the webinar below:

You can find the Press Release file here

The Impact of the Kapa3 Internship Programme: 30 Young Professionals in Our First 5 Years of Operation

The Impact of the Kapa3 Internship Programme: 30 Young Professionals in Our First 5 Years of Operation

In the five years since our establishment, thirty young people have had the opportunity to learn and grow through the Kapa3 Internship Programme.

International scientific literature highlights that internships are far more than a first work experience. They serve as a fundamental mechanism of experiential learning, enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world professional contexts.

Through their involvement in a civil society organisation like Kapa3, interns developed reflective and critical thinking skills—core elements of modern professional education. By engaging with real needs and challenges, students strengthened their professional identity and gained a deeper understanding of their role as future practitioners in health and social services. In many cases, the internship at Kapa3 played a significant role in supporting their transition from university to the labour market, enhancing their confidence, social skills, and clarity of professional direction.

Furthermore, the structured field experiences offered opportunities to build professional networks, a key factor in long-term career development.

At Kapa3, the value of internships is evident across all aspects of our work. We strive to create an environment where students can deepen their academic knowledge, apply their skills to real cases, and map out the next steps of their careers with realism and self-awareness.

The result is a community of young professionals who are both socially conscious and scientifically equipped to contribute meaningfully to health and social care. We are proud to be at the forefront of education and warmly thank our partner universities for their trust and collaboration.

 

World Diabetes Day – November 14

World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14, reminding us of the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and proper management of the disease.

The date was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to mark the birthday of Frederick Banting, the Canadian scientist who discovered insulin in 1921 — a breakthrough that transformed millions of lives around the world.

What is Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood glucose. There are two main types: Type 1 diabetes, in which the immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas, and Type 2 diabetes, which is often linked to risk factors such as obesity, poor diet and physical inactivity.

Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented; however, with proper management, modern treatments and the right support, people living with it can enjoy a completely normal and active life.

Prevention Tips for Type 2 Diabetes

In Greece, the number of people living with diabetes continues to rise, highlighting the urgent need for prevention, especially for Type 2 diabetes. Education and early diagnosis can significantly reduce complications. Emotional support from family and friends also improves quality of life.

In addition, good diabetes management requires both knowledge and daily habits. For example, small actions can make a real difference. Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar and fats. Exercise regularly. Schedule checkups, monitor blood sugar. And last but not least, make to care for your mental well-being.

In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Equally important is prevention. By following a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a stable weight, you can greatly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Therefore, World Diabetes Day reminds us that prevention begins with small, everyday choices. Let’s take care of ourselves, stay informed and support those around us. Because health is a priority and an act of love for life itself.

At Kapa3, we believe that information and support should be accessible to everyone. Through meaningful community initiatives, open communication and genuine care for people, we stand beside those facing chronic conditions — today and every day.

Sources:

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

World Pneumonia Day: Every Breath Counts

Pneumonia, often underestimated, remains one of the most serious threats to public health worldwide.
World Pneumonia Day was established in 2009 by the Global Coalition Against Child Pneumonia, with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF. Since then, every year on November 12th, governments, organizations, and health institutions unite their efforts to raise awareness about a disease that, although preventable and treatable, still causes millions of deaths globally.

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can affect people of all ages, with particular risk for children under five, older adults, and individuals with chronic illnesses. According to WHO data, pneumonia remains the leading infectious cause of death among young children, accounting for approximately 700,000 deaths annually worldwide. In Europe and in Greece, although vaccinations and access to medical care have significantly reduced cases, pneumonia continues to be one of the most common causes of hospitalization among the elderly, especially during the winter months.

Moreover, pneumonia is a frequent and serious complication for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients. Timely prevention and proper information can save lives, protecting those already fighting their own health battles.

Prevention is therefore key. Vaccination, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding smoking, and timely medical care are essential measures to protect against this serious disease. At the same time, awareness and education help recognize early warning signs, such as high fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, so that prompt and appropriate treatment can be provided.

At Kapa3, we actively support information and prevention, highlighting the importance of protecting respiratory health for everyone. Through our initiatives, we provide guidance, resources, and support, reminding that no one needs to face the challenge of pneumonia alone. This day calls on all of us to act collectively, protect the most vulnerable, and strengthen prevention at every age.

Because every breath counts, and awareness is the first step to safeguarding it.

Sources:

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3