Those over 50 could have free access to these visits which cover 2 cancers that cause death each year

The data speak for themselves. In our country, according to the AIRTUM report “Cancer numbers in Italy 2020”, there is talk of 1,030 new cases of cancer a day. And almost half would be found in the initial phase with a simple preventive visit.

Diagnosing the disease at an early stage, that is, before it manifests itself on a clinical level, is crucial to saving thousands of lives.

This is why it is our sacrosanct right to access the free prevention campaigns carried out by the National Health Service.

There are 3 screening programs that can be accessed. The one for colorectal cancer, plus two others that affect women in particular: breast and cervix.

In this article we will deepen the criteria for access to prevention programs for colorectal and breast cancer.

Those over 50 could have free access to these visits which cover 2 cancers that cause death each year

Colon-retto

As reported by the website of the Ministry of Health, this tumor is the second cancer for women and the third for men.

The test is performed every 2 years, to women and men between 50 and 69 years old. The examination starts with the collection of a stool sample. Experts will analyze it to find any traces of blood, the so-called “occult blood”. The name is linked to the fact that these traces are not seen with the naked eye.

If this test finds any abnormalities, the next step involves a further examination, a colonoscopy.

Otherwise

This is the most common malignancy in women. In this case, screening consists of a mammogram to be performed every 2 years for women between the ages of 50 and 69. Although, in some Regions, a wider age range is being evaluated, from 45 to 74 years old.

Mammography allows you to view the breast from all directions. In this way it is possible to visualize any nodules, even small ones, perhaps difficult to feel to the touch.

In the event of a positive or suspected outcome, there will be other in-depth tests to be performed to arrive at a certain diagnosis. These will be followed, if necessary, by the beginning of the therapeutic process. And that is why those over 50 could have free access to these visits involving 2 cancers that cause death every year.

In the near future, we will deepen the criteria for accessing the preventive program for cervical cancer.

For more information, please consult the website of the Ministry of Health.