National Program for the Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

As part of optimizing public health, the National Screening Program for Colorectal Cancer is included. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and the third in women. According to a European Commission report published in March 2021, it was estimated that in the EU-27 countries in 2020, colorectal cancer accounted for 12.7% of all new cancer diagnoses and 12.4% of all cancer deaths. Preventive screening for colorectal cancer plays a pivotal role in reducing mortality from the disease, decreasing its incidence, and increasing early detection, allowing for radical therapeutic intervention.

Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

The goal of the National Screening Program for Colorectal Cancer is the early detection of precancerous lesions or even the disease itself, aiming for immediate intervention and treatment. If adenomatous polyps or possible neoplasia are diagnosed and managed at an early stage, they can be cured 100%, making early detection extremely essential.

The risk of colorectal cancer can be assessed through a self-test. If the result is positive, further examination through a colonoscopy can promptly detect adenomatous polyps or possible neoplasia.

Kosmoiatriki’s Role in Prevention

Kosmoiatriki, focusing on prevention and health promotion, supports all related initiatives and participates in the National Program for the Prevention of Colorectal Cancer. Beneficiaries of this prevention program are entitled to:

• Obtain and perform a Self-Test (Self-Diagnostic Test).
• In case of a positive Self-Test result, visit a Gastroenterologist for clinical assessment.
• With the Gastroenterologist’s consent, obtain a laxative and undergo a diagnostic colonoscopy.
• In case of findings, remove them on the spot when feasible, along with biopsy sampling.
• Conduct a Biopsy.

Who Is Eligible for the Program?

According to European guidelines for population screening in asymptomatic individuals for colorectal cancer prevention and the scientific protocol proposed by the Public Health Experts Committee, eligible participants include:

• Citizens aged 50–69 years who:
  • Have not been diagnosed with adenomatous colorectal polyps.
  • Have not been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
  • Do not have inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Do not have Lynch syndrome.
  • Do not have familial adenomatous polyposis.
  • Do not have hereditary colorectal cancer.
  • Possess a Social Security Number (AMKA), whether insured or uninsured.

Eligible individuals with activated e-prescription services will gradually receive their digital referral for free preventive tests. Those without activated e-prescription services can use their AMKA to contact any affiliated center in their area (public or private) to schedule their test appointments without incurring any costs. (Affiliated centers can be found on program websites, e.g., colon.gov.gr, etc.).

No prescription is required. Beneficiaries will receive their referral directly, and all they need to do is book their appointment quickly and easily.