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It is with great pleasure that I accepted the invitation to be here with you today and to welcome the opening of the two-day conference on: "The dynamics of environmental impacts on child health. Developments, Emerging Risks and Prevention" organised by the National Commission for the Environment and Child Health and the Cyprus Paediatric Society.
The current era confronts us with thousands of man-made substances and new technologies, and the exposure of our children to them should be a matter of concern. Concern about the impact that environmental changes may have on the health of the population has today become particularly heightened, both in circles of the scientific community and among the public and organised bodies. The uncontrolled use of technology has led to an apparent interest in deeper investigation of the potential threats resulting from environmental degradation, climate change and other factors.
The results of research on electromagnetic smog and climate change that we are all already experiencing are no longer a science fiction scenario, but a new reality with harmful effects on the physical, mental and spiritual health of modern man.
By extension, further knowledge and study of the impact of the environment on children is considered by the Ministry of Health to be of primary importance for the organization and development of policies for the benefit of public health, with multidimensional social and economic implications.
The decision of the Council of Ministers in 2004 to establish the National Commission "Environment and Child Health" was the result of the recognition of the need to take actions that would promote the protection of the fetus and child from environmental hazards, as well as the promotion of a healthy and safe environment with minimal exposure to unhealthy factors.
The Ministry of Health, recognizing the role and importance of the Commission, provides practical support for its actions, and at the same time makes use of the expertise of the Commission. Prevention and Safeguarding our children is everyone's responsibility. It requires a collective effort by the state that takes into account the costs of inaction. Adequate information of society as a whole in these areas and the timely promotion of broader institutional measures will form the basis for the effective implementation of interventions at the scientific, professional, family and individual level.
In addition, as the Ministry of Health, we want to take another step forward with the establishment of the National Committee for Children's Environment and Health, strengthening its advisory role and securing its future and independence, while at the same time paving the way for securing sponsorships from philanthropic organizations.
In addition, as the Ministry of Health, we want to take another step forward with the institutionalization of the National Committee for Children's Environment and Health, strengthening its advisory role and securing its future and independence, while at the same time paving the way for securing sponsorships from philanthropic organizations. The actions and initiatives they undertake demonstrate the multifaceted role that institutions in modern societies can play and the social contribution they must make to the daily lives of citizens in all areas. And the dedication and passion of the members of the Commission with the support of all the Commission's allies, including the Ministry of Health, are factors that make us optimistic about the realisation of the objectives of the Commission and, by extension, of the Ministry of Health. We owe the optimism and smiles to every child and every parent.
I wish you success in the work of the biennial conference.
Contents of this article including associated images are owned by PIO
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or PIO
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