Cancer prevention - Free breast cancer screening now also for women over 70
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Health Minister Stefanie Drese (SPD) welcomed the increase in the age limit for mammography screening for breast cancer early detection. From July 1st, women between 70 and 75 years old can also claim such a cancer preventive examination every two years, the minister announced on Saturday. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women and mammography is the most reliable preventive measure.
In particular, in a federal state like Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, which has the highest average age after Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt, this decision to raise the age limit is a real gain. "The risk for breast cancer increases with age, so these additional two to three screenings can be decisive in recognizing possible changes early and initiating treatment if necessary," emphasized Drese.
The minister encouraged all women between 50 and 75 years old to actually take up the regular and free preventive examinations. At the same time, she pointed out that women between 70 and 75 years old will not receive an invitation to the screening by post at first, but must register for an appointment themselves at the so-called Central Offices.
- Stefanie Drese, the Health Minister of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, advocates for regular breast cancer screenings as a form of cancer prevention, encouraging women between 50 and 75 years old to participate.
- In light of breast cancer being the leading cause of death among women and the effectiveness of mammography as a preventive measure, Drese lauds the decision to raise the age limit for breast cancer screening in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
- Recognizing the increased risk for breast cancer with age, Stefanie Drese emphasizes the significance of additional screening appointments for women aged 70 to 75, which can aid in early detection and possible treatment.
- With the new age limit now allowing mammography screenings for women aged 70 to 75 every two years, Drese stresses that these individuals will not receive an invitation by post and must actively register for an appointment at the Central Offices.
- As a member of the SPD party, Health Minister Stefanie Drese's initiatives in breast cancer prevention, such as expanding screening opportunities and promoting regular examinations, demonstrate her commitment to enhancing overall health and well-being in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
