HIV remains one of the most persistent public health challenges globally—and Cyprus is no exception. But today, the tools to prevent new HIV infections are more effective than ever. Chief among them is PrEP—Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis—a medication regimen that can drastically reduce the risk of HIV infection. And yet, in Cyprus, access to PrEP remains unofficial and limited, leaving many without the medical support or protection they need

PrEP is a preventive treatment for HIV-negative individuals who are at higher risk of exposure to the virus. When taken consistently, it provides a highly effective shield. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S., PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and from injection drug use by at least 74%. Its success is backed by over a decade of international research and implementation.

In countries where PrEP has been officially integrated into public healthcare systems—such as the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands—the results speak volumes. A study in London found an 86% drop in new HIV diagnoses among gay and bisexual men after the rollout of a large-scale PrEP program. Similarly, San Francisco saw new HIV infections decline by over 50% in five years after implementing widespread PrEP access.

These successes didn’t happen by chance—they were the result of targeted policies, accessible public health services, and governmental commitment to HIV prevention.

Neighboring Greece officially approved PrEP in 2022 and has recently (May 2025) started providing with free to it, implementing a national program that has already shown significant results.

Despite the global data and growing awareness, PrEP is still not officially available through the public healthcare system in Cyprus. Those who wish to take it must do so at their own initiative and expense, often without medical guidance or proper follow-up care—leaving gaps in safety, adherence, and efficacy.

Cyprus has seen rising concern among public health experts over the years. Local research, such as the 2018 “PrEP in Cyprus” survey conducted by the AIDS Solidarity Movement and Accept LGBTI Cyprus, revealed clear demand for PrEP and highlighted systemic gaps in HIV prevention services. The need is not hypothetical. It’s real, measurable, and urgent.

Implementing PrEP is not just a health policy decision—it’s a social responsibility. Providing safe, structured access to PrEP would protect vulnerable communities, reduce new infections, and align Cyprus with the public health standards already embraced by much of Europe and the Western world.

While the national health system has yet to roll out PrEP officially, the community has taken action. On 29 May 2025, the AIDS Solidarity Movement will launch the Cyprus PrEP Point—a community-led Information and Empowerment Centre dedicated to PrEP awareness and support.

Cyprus PrEP Point will offer information, guidance, and community-based support for those who are taking PrEP or want to learn more. This grassroots initiative is a vital step, but it cannot replace systemic healthcare provision. The Ministry of Health has already approved a national implementation plan. What remains is the political will to turn plans into practice.

HIV is preventable. PrEP works. Cyprus has the knowledge, the data, and the community momentum. What’s missing is timely action.

It’s time to bridge the gap between science and policy—and make PrEP officially available to all who need it.