According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 20 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and more than 10 million die from this disease. Kazakhstan also shows a high incidence of oncological diseases.
Data from 2023 indicate that approximately 35,000–36,000 new cancer cases are registered annually in the country.
Screening is a preventive measure that allows for early detection of diseases in the population. Early detection of cancer significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment and reduces mortality rates. Screening plays a particularly important role for certain types of cancer, such as breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers.
In Kazakhstan, national screening programs are conducted for the early detection of oncological diseases:
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Breast cancer screening – mammography every two years for women aged 40–70.
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Cervical cancer screening – Pap test (oncocytological examination) every four years for women aged 30–70.
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Colorectal cancer screening – fecal occult blood test for men and women aged 50–70, followed by colonoscopy if necessary.
Statistics and effectiveness: In recent years, early detection of cancer through screening programs in Kazakhstan has increased. For instance, in 2023, breast cancer screening detected early-stage cancer in over 2,000 women. The five-year survival rate for patients diagnosed at an early stage exceeds 80%, while late-stage detection reduces this rate to 30–40%.
In conclusion, screening examinations are an effective tool for the early detection and prevention of cancer. Along with promoting a healthy lifestyle, these programs help improve public health and increase life expectancy. Participation in screening programs reflects each citizen’s responsibility and conscious approach to their own health.
Zhadira MOMYNKULOVA
1st-year PhD student, Department of Health Organization and Policy
