Cancer provision: More and more people are using free examinations!

Cancer provision: More and more people are using free examinations!

Last year, the use of cancer early detection investigations has increased in Germany, both in men and women. Statistics show that 21.2 percent of men over the age of 45 took advantage of these important examinations compared to 19.9 percent in the previous year. In women aged 20 and over, the rate rose to 42.5 percent, while it was 41.6 percent in the previous year.

These figures indicate that although progress has been made, the use of cancer provision remains low, especially in men. Matthias Wehmhöner, AOK service manager, emphasizes the urgency to better use the free early detection examinations of the statutory health insurance companies: "Prevention is sensible time. Because the opportunity for early diagnosis can save lives," he explains.

The importance of early detection

The early detection of cancer or its preliminary stages increases the chances of recovery significantly. Meluer indicates that cancer can be recognized by cancer by cancer. The statutory health insurance companies cover the costs for these examinations, which means that financial reasons are not the main reason for the low claim.

A current survey by the Civey opinion research institute, which was commissioned in November 2023, shows that many people in Westphalia-Lippe are deterred by fears and concerns from participating in cancer examinations. So 27 percent of the respondents stated that the investigations could be uncomfortable or painful.

The fear of diagnosis

Another worrying result of the survey is that more than half of the respondents (52 percent) are afraid of actually being diagnosed with cancer during a cancer examination. These fears want to reduce the AOK with its reconnaissance measures. "The important issue of cancer should not be pushed in front of them," emphasized Wahmhöner. The AOK therefore initiated the development of the "Vororg-O-Mat", an online platform that answers the most common questions about cancer provision and provides information about when the next examinations are due.

The preventive examinations are regulated by law for men and women: men aged 45 and over once a year are entitled to investigations into the early detection of cancer. These include examinations of the prostate and the outer genital organs. On the other hand, women can take part in cancer detections annually from the age of 20. These include examinations of the genital organs and regular compromises from the cervix, whereby the smear is made every three years from 35 years.

at a time when the medical possibilities for the early detection of diseases are getting better, cancer prevention remains an essential measure for health care. The low use of these offers, especially among men, shows that education and sensitization are crucial to reduce prejudices and to raise awareness of their own health. Further information on this topic and specific data are here to be found.