Population ageing, the rise in chronic diseases and the growing cost of modern treatments are creating a new reality for health systems across Europe. In Cyprus, where the General Healthcare System (Gesy) is still evolving, these trends are expected to significantly shape how the system operates in the coming years.
The issue of sustainability and the pressures created by demographic and technological change was at the centre of a recent conference organised by the Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation, where health sector experts warned that pressures on health systems are set to intensify.
Demographic pressure already visible
The discussion is no longer theoretical. Representatives of health organisations, doctors and policymakers stressed that pressures already seen across Europe are beginning to emerge in Cyprus, prompting a broader debate on the future of Gesy. Demographic ageing is identified as one of the most significant challenges. Rising life expectancy combined with declining birth rates is gradually reshaping the population structure, increasing demand for healthcare services.
Across the European Union, around one in five citizens is now over the age of 65, a figure expected to rise further in the coming decades. Cyprus is following the same trend. According to the Statistical Service of Cyprus, the share of people aged 65 and over reached 17.7 per cent of the population in 2024, up from around 11.3 per cent in 2000. At the same time, the proportion of children under 15 has declined, confirming the steady ageing of Cypriot society.
Fewer workers, higher demand
Another key indicator is the old-age dependency ratio, which measures how many people over 65 correspond to every 100 individuals of working age. Data from Eurostat show that Cyprus’ ratio reached approximately 24 per cent in 2024. In practical terms, this means that for every 100 people aged 15 to 64, there are around 24 people aged 65 and over.
This ratio is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades, placing additional pressure not only on healthcare systems but also on social security systems. Older age groups also make substantially greater use of healthcare services, a trend confirmed by international studies.
Chronic diseases driving costs
The ageing population is closely linked to a rise in chronic conditions. Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory illnesses and neurodegenerative disorders are now among the leading causes of morbidity. In Cyprus, non-communicable diseases account for more than 90 per cent of deaths, highlighting their weight on public health. Diabetes alone affects an estimated 9 to 10 per cent of the adult population.
These conditions require long-term treatment and continuous monitoring, often involving multiple medical specialties. As a result, they significantly increase the use of healthcare services. International estimates indicate that chronic diseases account for around 70 to 80 per cent of total health expenditure in European countries, making their management a key factor for the sustainability of modern health systems.
The implementation of Gesy has significantly expanded access to healthcare services in Cyprus. Conference participants noted that this is one of the system’s most important achievements. However, broader access also increases pressure on resources and requires more efficient management of the system.
Rising costs and funding challenges
At the same time, health systems are facing the growing cost of new medical treatments. In Cyprus, public funding for healthcare has increased substantially following the introduction of Gesy. Public financing now covers around 85 per cent of total health expenditure, while the Gesy budget continues to rise, reaching approximately €2.13 billion for 2026.
Speakers at the conference highlighted that balancing access to high-quality healthcare with long-term sustainability will be one of the central challenges in the years ahead. While the financial sustainability of the system is often described as secure in the medium term, there is broad consensus that improving the quality of services remains a work in progress.
The role of digital health and technology was also emphasised. The use of health data and digital tools can support better organisation of services and more efficient resource management. Overall, the developments outlined at the conference point to a complex and evolving challenge. Health systems must adapt to increasing demand, higher costs and shifting demographics.