Screening for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer : an update on the national cancer screening programmes

Abstract

Early detection of cancer can significantly reduce mortality and improve the quality of life of persons with cancer. In this article we describe the three national screening programmes that have been introduced in Malta since 2009 and that are based on guidelines supported by the European Commission. Screening for breast cancer was the first national screening programme implemented in Malta. After several years of roll-out and gradual expansion of the service, this programme is now reaching the targets of the European Commission on Breast Cancer (ECIBC) Guideline Group in terms of target population and screening frequency. Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Screening was the second programme to be introduced in 2013 while Cervical Cancer Screening was launched in 2016. These programmes are being gradually scaled up, and there is continuous investment in new technologies and human resources. Low participation rates remain a challenge, however improvements have been achieved following awareness campaigns and evaluation of the invitation protocols.