Diseases - Once again, more people with cancer screening in the north
People in Schleswig-Holstein are going to cancer screening more frequently, according to AOK Nordwest's statements. An analysis of the health insurance company revealed that in the previous year, 17.9% of men over 45 years old used cancer screening earlier. In 2022, this figure was 16.6%. For women over 20 years old, the utilization rate in 2023 rose to 34.7% - the previous year's figure was 33.2%.
"There is a positive trend after strong setbacks in the Corona years," said Tom Ackermann, the chairman of the board of AOK Nordwest. However, this development should not obscure the fact that cancer screening is still not used enough. The value for men in particular is too low. Men over 45 and women over 20 have the right to annual examinations for the early detection of cancerous conditions.
The earlier a tumor or its precursors are detected and treated, the greater the chances of healing. "Cancer screening allows the detection of early stages of cancer," explained Ackermann. It is also important to pay attention to the body's warning signs and not to ignore risks.
Women in Schleswig-Holstein are showing an increase in cancer screening participation, aligning with the data presented by AOK Nordwest. Despite this improvement, there's a need for more men to take advantage of annual screenings for early cancer detection, as only 16.6% of men over 45 utilized it in 2022. Ensuring OK for both men and women, the right to regular examinations for potential cancerous conditions, can significantly increase the chances of successful cancer prevention.
