4.5 Million Free Cancer Screenings Conducted in First Half of Year
The Ministry of Health highlights the importance of cancer screenings during Public Health Week
As part of Public Health Week, which took place from September 3-9, the Ministry of Health issued a statement emphasizing the theme of “Don’t Postpone Your Health, Take Action.” Within this context, the importance of cancer screenings was underscored as a crucial aspect of preventative healthcare measures.
The statement aimed to raise awareness and inform the public about the significance of cancer screenings as an effective method in the early detection and treatment of the disease. It emphasized that cancer is a preventable and treatable condition, stressing the importance of seeking medical attention if any unusual symptoms are observed.
In Turkey, the National Cancer Screening Program offers free screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and colon cancer at primary health care facilities, including Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening and Education Centers (KETEM), Community Health Centers, Healthy Life Centers, and Family Health Centers. Additionally, mobile cancer screening vehicles provide services to reach rural areas and disadvantaged groups.
The statement highlighted that women between the ages of 40-69 should undergo breast cancer screenings every 2 years, women between the ages of 30-65 for cervical cancer every 5 years, and both men and women between 50-70 for colon cancer every 2 years. Individuals who test positive or show suspicious results during screenings are referred to secondary and tertiary healthcare institutions for further evaluation.
According to the Ministry of Health, in 2023, a total of 7.7 million cancer screenings were conducted in Turkey, with 2.8 million for breast cancer, 2.9 million for cervical cancer, and 2 million for colon cancer. In the first half of 2024, 4.5 million screenings were performed, including 1.6 million for breast cancer, 1.7 million for cervical cancer, and 1.2 million for colon cancer.
For more information on the most suitable screening programs and to find the nearest screening center, individuals can visit the Ministry of Health’s website, specifically the General Directorate of Public Health, Cancer Department section titled ‘Which Screening is Suitable for Me?’ and ‘KETEM Addresses.’
