Free Colorectal Cancer Screening in Austria Now from 45: Early Detection Saves Lives

The age for free colorectal cancer screening is being lowered from 50 to 45 years. Implementation is planned from October, as announced by the umbrella organization of social insurance carriers on Wednesday. This includes a colonoscopy every ten years and a test for occult blood in the stool as part of the preventive examination. Annually, there are around 5,000 new cases of colorectal cancer in Austria. Many are preventable if polyps in the colon are removed in time.

Experts for Improved Colorectal Cancer Screening

The Cancer Aid, the Society for Gastroenterology and Hepatology (ÖGGH), and the National Screening Committee had already recommended screening via colonoscopy or FIT stool test from the age of 45, as more colorectal cancer cases are occurring under the age of 50. Experts have also repeatedly called for a uniform, quality-assured colorectal cancer screening with invitation letters.

Benefits of Preventive Screening Proven - Social Insurance Welcomes Changes

With the lowering of the age, Austria is also aligning with international recommendations, and the medical benefits of the measure are well scientifically documented, it was stated in the release on Wednesday. The earlier potential changes in the colon are detected and removed, the higher the chances of cure - or it can even be prevented that cancer develops at all. The social insurance is therefore investing around five million euros in preventive medicine.

"Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but also one of the most preventable - if detected early," emphasized Peter McDonald, chairman of the umbrella organization of Austrian social insurance carriers. "That the screening is now offered free of charge from the age of 45 is a significant improvement for the insured," emphasized his deputy Claudia Neumayer-Stickler. In case of suspected illness, colorectal cancer screening can also be conducted earlier free of charge with a referral from a doctor.

(APA/Red)

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