QUALITY OF LIFE Archives

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.

Sleep and Cancer: Understanding Insomnia and Nighttime Disorders

Sleep disturbances are common in people living with cancer, affecting physical health, emotional well-being, and quality of life. Insomnia—difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or obtaining restorative sleep—is one of the most frequent issues. It can occur at any stage of cancer and may be triggered or worsened by the cancer itself, treatments such as chemotherapy, medications, anxiety related to diagnosis, or lifestyle factors like caffeine, alcohol, or limited daytime activity.

Often, insomnia begins after a sudden change in life or medication. Over time, certain behaviors may make it chronic, such as sleeping with lights or TV on, napping during the day, or consuming caffeine or alcohol in the evening. Patients with coexisting conditions, such as anxiety or depression, may be particularly vulnerable.

Clinical approaches to insomnia
Evidence supports a multi-faceted strategy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) has been shown to reduce sleep complaints in cancer patients and may decrease reliance on hypnotic medications. CBT-I addresses maladaptive sleep behaviors and beliefs and can be delivered in-person or through digital programs, such as the FDA-cleared application Somryst.

Pharmacological treatment may be indicated for severe or persistent insomnia, typically as short-term therapy. Commonly prescribed medications include benzodiazepine receptor agonists (e.g., zolpidem, eszopiclone), low-dose doxepin, and orexin receptor antagonists. However, evidence in cancer patients remains limited, and medication should be closely monitored to avoid long-term dependence.

Parasomnias: nocturnal behavioral events
Some patients experience unusual behaviors during sleep, including sleepwalking, night terrors, or acting out dreams (REM sleep behavior disorder). These events may be influenced by treatment, medications, metabolic changes, or other medical conditions, and can sometimes be confused with seizures or delirium. Accurate documentation of the timing, frequency, behaviors, and memory of events is crucial for diagnosis. In cases where safety is at risk, or the events are atypical, video polysomnography may be recommended.

It is a fact that sleep affects multiple physiological processes, and disruptions can influence both quality of life and potentially cancer outcomes. A comprehensive, individualized approach—considering behavioral strategies, careful use of medication, and evaluation for other sleep disorders—is essential. Ongoing research is expanding our understanding of sleep’s role in cancer progression and patient resilience.

At Kapa3, we recognize the importance of sleep in supporting the overall well-being of people living with cancer, and we encourage patients to seek guidance on managing sleep disturbances as part of comprehensive care.

Read the full article here

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Depression and Cancer Mortality: A Critical Link Across Major Cancer Types

Depression is a common but often underrecognized condition among cancer patients, affecting up to 20–30% of individuals diagnosed with the disease. Beyond its impact on quality of life, mounting evidence suggests that depression can significantly influence cancer outcomes, including survival. A recent meta-analysis of 65 cohort studies spanning colorectal, breast, lung, prostate, and mixed cancers provides compelling evidence that depression diagnosed after a cancer diagnosis is associated with a substantially increased risk of mortality.

The analysis revealed that patients with depression faced an 83% higher risk of dying from colorectal cancer, a 59% higher risk in lung cancer, a 74% higher risk in prostate cancer, and a 23% higher risk in breast cancer compared to non-depressed patients. Across mixed cancer types, depression increased the risk of cancer mortality by 38%. These findings underscore that the psychological burden of cancer is not merely an emotional challenge but a critical factor affecting survival outcomes.

Mechanisms Linking Depression and Cancer Outcomes

Depression may influence cancer progression through multiple biological and behavioral pathways. Biologically, depression is associated with chronic systemic inflammation, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, immune suppression, autonomic dysfunction, oxidative stress, and impaired DNA repair. Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), can contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. In older patients, depression may exacerbate age-related immune dysfunction, creating an environment more permissive to cancer progression.

Behaviorally, depression affects health-related actions and treatment adherence. Depressed patients are more likely to delay seeking medical care, adhere poorly to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapies, and engage in unhealthy habits such as smoking, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity. Social isolation and reduced support systems further increase vulnerability, compounding the negative impact on survival.

Clinical Implications and Interventions

The strong association between depression and cancer mortality highlights the urgent need to integrate mental health care into routine oncology practice. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive-expressive therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches, have shown promise in reducing distress and improving adherence to cancer treatment. Pharmacological management, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may also support mental health and potentially influence cancer outcomes, though more research is needed to understand their role fully. Early identification and treatment of depressive symptoms should be considered a priority for oncologists, mental health professionals, and healthcare policymakers alike.

Limitations and Future Directions

While this meta-analysis provides robust evidence, several limitations should be noted. The observational nature of the studies prevents establishing causality, and differences in study design, depression assessment methods, and patient populations contribute to heterogeneity. Future research should explore longitudinal and randomized studies to clarify causal pathways and identify the most effective interventions to reduce depression-related mortality. Investigating the interactions between depression, inflammation, and cancer biology may also reveal targets for novel supportive therapies.

Depression is not just a psychological burden for cancer patients—it is a significant predictor of mortality across multiple cancer types. These findings call for systematic depression screening and tailored interventions as integral components of oncology care.

Organizations like Kapa3 play a vital role in supporting the mental health of cancer patients, offering resources and guidance that can improve both quality of life and treatment outcomes. Integrating psychological support into cancer care ensures that mental well-being is recognized as an essential part of the healing process.
In line with this mission, Kapa3 participates in MELODIC, a new European initiative dedicated to supporting the mental health of young adults (18–30 years old) living with or beyond cancer.

Read the original article here

The Power of Social Support in Cancer Care

Why connection is as vital as treatment

Mental health professionals consistently emphasise the value of a strong social support network. Social support is among the strongest predictors of emotional well-being and overall quality of life. It refers to the extent to which our social and emotional needs are met through the people and communities around us, such as family, friends, colleagues, and groups that share our values and experiences.

Group interventions, for example, have been shown to reduce psychological stress by providing individuals with chronic illnesses the opportunity to connect and share experiences (Jackson et al., 2019). Studies have found that cancer patients who felt more supported by family, friends, or their community experienced less distress, coped more effectively, and had a greater sense of control during treatment. Tangible support, in particular, was more significant for older patients, who may face greater physical challenges due to age or disability (Ahmad et al., 2013).

Furthermore, social support fosters optimism and resilience, which are key factors that help patients adapt to illness. By strengthening hope and inner confidence, social connections help protect against anxiety and depression, acting as a buffer against the emotional impact of stress (Ruiz-Rodríguez et al., 2022).

But what comes first — support or coping? The systematic review by Bottaro and colleagues (2023) suggests the relationship is bidirectional: people who receive strong support cope better, and those who cope better are more likely to seek and maintain strong relationships. It’s a cycle of connection that reinforces recovery.

The source of support also plays a crucial role. Patients often view family, friends, and partners as the most important sources of support for coping with diagnosis and treatment. However, when the type of support offered doesn’t align with the patient’s needs, it can feel less meaningful or even unhelpful.

While loved ones form the core of emotional care, healthcare professionals are often the first and most consistent source of reassurance. According to the literature, patients who feel heard, respected, and well-informed by their medical team cope more effectively and experience less anxiety. Ruiz-Rodríguez and colleagues highlight that optimism and resilience grow when medical staff communicate openly and offer encouragement. Compassionate communication from healthcare providers strengthens patients’ ability to manage their illness, creating a positive feedback loop between support and wellbeing (Bottaro et al., 2023).

At Kapa3, we witness this truth daily. Through our community programs, research, and advocacy, we work to create environments where no one faces cancer alone. Social support is not only emotional, it’s practical, cultural, and profoundly human. Healing doesn’t happen only in hospitals; it happens in homes, workplaces, and communities.

References

Ahmad, M., Khan, M. A., & Shirazi, M. (2013). Perception of Social Support by Cancer Patients. International Journal of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, 3(5), 115–122. https://doi.org/10.5923/j.ijpbs.20130305.01

Bottaro, R., Craparo, G., & Faraci, P. (2023). What is the direction of the association between social support and coping in cancer patients? A systematic review. Journal of Health Psychology, 28(6), 135910532211311. https://doi.org/10.1177/13591053221131180

Jackson, M., Jones, D., Dyson, J., & Macleod, U. (2019). Facilitated group work for people with long-term conditions: A systematic review of benefits from studies of group-work interventions. British Journal of General Practice, 69(682), 363–372. https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp19x702233

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. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.833176

Article by: Despina Chrysostomidou, Psychologist for Kapa3 Research Insights

Continuing the Journey: Holistic Body and Mind Care with Kapa3 and the University of the Peloponnese

After the first round of meetings held in April (see the related article here), focusing on Nutritional Guidance and Experiential Psychological Support, Kapa3 and the University of the Peloponnese continue their collaboration with a new series of experiential workshops dedicated to the holistic care of body and mind.

The meetings are open to people living with cancer, caregivers, and healthcare professionals — to anyone seeking a space for genuine communication, understanding, and empowerment.

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

In the mental health sessions, participants learn to recognize and manage challenging emotions such as anxiety or fear, strengthen their resilience, and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and others.

At the same time, the nutrition sessions explore how balanced and mindful eating can support the body, enhance energy and mood, and become an act of self-care and self-respect. Food is not only a necessity but also a way to show love — to the body, the soul, and to life itself.

The meetings are held online and are 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.

To express your interest: Registration Form for the Support Group for People with Cancer

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia for Kapa3

Understanding Breast Cancer Risk Factors: What You Can and Can’t Change

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, share knowledge, and remind ourselves of the importance of early detection and prevention. One of the most common questions people ask is: “What can I do to lower my risk of breast cancer?”

The truth is that while doctors don’t know exactly what causes breast cancer, research has identified certain factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Some of these are beyond our control, while others are linked to lifestyle choices and can be modified. By learning the difference, we empower ourselves to take the best possible care of our health.

Unchangeable Risk Factors

Some risk factors cannot be avoided. These include:

Sex: Being female or assigned female at birth is the biggest risk factor.
Age: Risk increases with age; two out of three invasive breast cancers occur in women 55 or older.
Family History and Genetics: A family history of breast cancer or inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1/2) increases risk.
Personal History: Women previously diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to develop it again.
Past Radiation: Radiation to the chest or face before age 30 raises risk.
Certain Breast Conditions: Some non-cancerous breast changes are linked to higher risk.

Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors

Our daily habits and choices also play a significant role:

Weight: Being overweight, especially after menopause, increases risk.
Physical Activity: Lack of regular exercise is linked to higher risk.
Smoking and Alcohol: Both are associated with increased breast cancer risk.
Hormonal Factors: Use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or hormonal contraception may raise risk in some women.
Reproductive History: Age at first childbirth, number of pregnancies, and breastfeeding history all influence risk.
Menstrual History: Early onset of menstruation is associated with slightly higher risk.

Emerging Risk Factors

Research is ongoing, but some additional factors are being studied, such as:

Low vitamin D levels.
Night-shift work and exposure to bright light at night.
Exposure to chemicals (in food, plastics, cosmetics, sunscreens, pesticides, pollution).
Frequent consumption of grilled or smoked meats.
High levels of air pollution.

Myths and Misconceptions

It’s equally important to clear up what does not increase risk. Research shows no evidence that abortion, antiperspirants, bras, or dairy products cause breast cancer.

We may not be able to control every risk factor, but every small step toward a healthier lifestyle truly makes a difference. Exercise, balanced nutrition, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking are not just prevention measures — they’re acts of daily self-care.
At Kapa3, we believe that awareness and support save lives. No one is ever alone on this journey. We promise to continue to speak openly, share knowledge, and stand beside every woman. Because awareness is not about fear; it’s about strength, hope, and small steps toward a healthier tomorrow.

Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia for Kapa3

October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is internationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, prevention, and support for everyone affected by the disease. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, yet early diagnosis and advances in treatment have significantly improved both quality and length of life.

The event began in 1985 as a week-long awareness campaign by the American Cancer Society, in partnership with Imperial Chemical Industries, a British company that made tamoxifen. The campaign eventually grew into a month-long event.

The core message of this month is simple but crucial: awareness saves lives. Regular mammograms, self-examinations, and timely medical advice when suspicious signs appear are the most powerful tools for prevention and early detection. International studies show that women who participate in screening programs are more likely to be diagnosed at an early stage, allowing for more effective and less invasive treatment.

However, October is not just about medical tests. It is a month that highlights the importance of psychosocial support and solidarity. Breast cancer affects not only the body but also the mind and spirit. Women – and men – facing this diagnosis need a supportive network of family, friends, healthcare professionals, and organizations to guide, encourage, and stand by them every step of the way.

The Kapa3 Cancer Guidance Center joins the international community in emphasizing the value of accurate information and equitable access to healthcare services. Through informative articles, prevention guides, and psychological support, our goal is to stand by every person in need, providing reliable knowledge and meaningful assistance.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than a campaign: it is a reminder that life can be won when prevention, education, and solidarity become part of our daily practice. October calls on all of us to raise our voices, promote screening, and embrace those fighting their own battles—because no one should face cancer alone.

When Strength Emerges from Adversity

When Strength Emerges from Adversity
Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth in People Affected by Cancer

When we talk about the psychological state of a cancer patient, the words that usually come to mind are heavy ones: shock, pain, loss, depression. For many years, research focused mainly on the negative consequences of trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In recent decades, however, scientists and psychologists have started to recognize another, less familiar but equally important reality: out of pain, something positive can also emerge. Some people don’t just “bounce back” from adversity — they undergo profound change, discovering new meaning in life and strengthening their relationships. This process is called Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG).

What is Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) in Cancer Survivors?

Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) refers to the positive psychological changes that can emerge after facing traumatic experiences such as cancer. Instead of remaining “stuck” in the trauma, survivors may develop greater resilience, a renewed sense of purpose, and deeper connections with others.

Key Findings

Psychological Factors

Emotional Regulation: The ability to manage emotions is linked to higher PTG.
Sense of Purpose: Discovering or renewing life’s meaning strengthens growth.
Self-Esteem: A healthy self-image supports positive change.

Predictive Factors

Social Support: Strong relationships foster recovery and growth.
Spirituality: Personal beliefs can act as a protective factor.
Coping Strategies: Healthy ways of dealing with challenges (like positive reframing) promote PTG.

Helpful Interventions

Psychological Support: Therapies that focus on PTG show promising results.
Support Groups: Sharing experiences with others can enhance recovery.
Educational Programs: Learning tools for resilience empowers survivors.

At the end of the day, every cancer journey is unique — but for many, pain can also give rise to an unexpected new strength. PTG does not erase sorrow or struggle; it simply shows that alongside trauma, something meaningful can take root and carry life forward. And it is exactly this understanding of PTG that gives us yet another reason to stand by people with cancer through their difficult path — with respect, patience, and genuine presence.

Read the full article here

The new OECD report (2025) highlights Greece’s challenges and priorities in cancer

The new OECD report (2025) highlights Greece’s challenges and priorities in cancer, comparing them with other European countries.

Key points:

Increased incidence: Greece records ~67,000 new cancer diagnoses and ~36,000 deaths annually (2022 data). By 2050, cases are expected to increase by 36%.
Risk factors: Smoking, obesity, poor diet, air pollution, low HPV vaccination coverage.
Early diagnosis: There are programs for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer, but they are not yet sufficiently developed or sustainable beyond 2025.
Inequalities in care: Staff shortages, geographical inequalities, high out-of-pocket costs, difficulties in access for vulnerable groups.
Survivors & caregivers: There is no organized strategy for the quality of life of survivors, while caregivers are overburdened. The “right to be forgotten” does not yet apply in Greece.
Data & policy: Until recently, there was no national cancer registry. Greece does not yet have a comprehensive National Cancer Plan, unlike many other European countries.

Conclusion:
Greece is called upon to:

– strengthen prevention and population-based screening,

– reduce inequalities in access,

– support survivors and caregivers,

– and develop a holistic national cancer plan with clear targets and evaluation.

The report clearly shows that the country needs greater investment, better organization, and integration of actions into European planning.

See the report in detail here 22087cfa-en (1)

The main points are given in the file below by the Kapa3 team. OOSA 2025 REPORT

Palliative Care in Cancer: Ensuring Quality of Life Alongside Treatment

Palliative Care in Cancer: Ensuring Quality of Life Alongside Treatment

The editorial underlines the vital role of palliative care in cancer management. While advances in oncology have improved survival, many patients still face significant physical, emotional, and social challenges. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and anxiety, while also supporting families and caregivers.

Research shows that early integration of palliative care improves patients’ quality of life, helps them tolerate demanding treatments, and even extends survival in some cases. It also facilitates better communication between patients and healthcare providers and reduces unnecessary hospitalizations and costs.

Despite this evidence, palliative care remains underused, often mistaken for end-of-life care only. In Greece, until recently it was not formally part of the National Health System, and existing services remain limited. However, the 2022 legal framework and the position paper of the Hellenic Society of Medical Oncology stress the urgent need for wider integration, more training for oncologists, and stronger policy support.

Ultimately, oncology success should not be measured only in survival rates but also in ensuring dignity, comfort, and holistic support for patients throughout their journey.