A step forward in public health
With the celebration of World Colon Cancer Day, the Ministry of Health has revealed the results of the first phase of the early detection program, which covers in the years 2023-2024. This initiative, which seeks to detect cancer in early stages, has identified 29 cases of cancer among the Andorran population.
A program with a clear target
Through two years ago, this program is aimed at residents of 50 to 74 years with an average risk of colon and rectal cancer, excluding those with family or personal background. Early detection is essential, as it significantly improves the patients’ recovery possibilities.
Revealing data
In the first two years, a total of 8,014 people participated in the program, which represents 26.3% of the total number of invitations sent (30,477). Of the people who took part, 4,317 were women and 3,697 were men.
Results of the tests
Of the participants, 441 obtained positive results in the stool hidden blood test. Of these, 256 were men and 185 women. Later, 394 people underwent a colonoscopy to confirm the results, of which 29 were diagnosed with cancer.
Analysis of the detection rate
The cancer detection rate is established in 3.62 cases per thousand people who performed the hidden blood test. Separating by sex, the rate in men is 5.14 and in women of 2.32 per thousand. These figures are aligned with the regulations of detection at European level.
Follow -up and future tests
Among the colonoscopy made, 202 patients have been derived for additional monitoring due to detected injuries, while 152 had no injuries that needed monitoring. Ten years later, these people will be invited to participate again in the program.
Operation of the program
The Ministry of Health sends personalized letters to the target population, instructing them on how to collect and deliver the samples for the analysis. Depending on the results, future actions are planned, including colonoscopy for those with positive results.
Accessibility and support
To guarantee transparency and accessibility, all the results of the tests are recorded in the patient’s medical history. In addition, the program offers a direct service to solve doubts and provide additional information.
With a firm commitment to public health, the Ministry of Health continues to work to increase participation and awareness of the importance of the early detection of colon cancer, thus contributing to a healthier society.