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Mall Of Cyprus And Mall Of Engomi Join Ablebook Platform

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 6, 2024

The Ablebook application has announced its new partnership with the Mall of Cyprus and the Mall of Engomi, integrating their spaces into its platform.

This partnership aims to facilitate access and provide information for people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, a relevant press release notes.

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Ablebook, an application on Android and iOS devices, aims to improve accessibility and support people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups by offering information and services that facilitate their daily lives.

As noted in the press release, the Mall of Cyprus and the Mall of Engomi offer a range of accessible infrastructure, such as dedicated parking spaces near the entrances, ramps, accessible toilets and comfortable wheelchair spaces.

“Through this partnership, Ablebook users visiting the specific malls can be informed about the accessible facilities and ask for assistance, if needed, from the relevant mall staff. This ensures that all visitors can enjoy their shopping experience and moments without obstacles,” the press release adds.

“Our collaboration with the Mall of Cyprus and Mall of Engomi is another step towards a more equal and open society for all. By offering facilities and services that cater to the needs of people with disabilities, shopping centers contribute positively to social progress and solidarity,” Ablebook’s announcement concludes.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.