More than 65,000 women in Greece have been detected early with findings related to breast cancer under the “PROLAMBANO” program, which highlights the importance of organized prevention programs for public health. To date, over 1 million digital mammograms have been performed, with tens of thousands of women referred for further medical investigation, enabling early care and intervention.
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The “PRELAMBANO” breast cancer programme is part of the first comprehensive National Prevention Programme implemented in the country. The initiative aims at early detection of key chronic diseases associated with high mortality rates, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Through the introduction of free screening tests, the early diagnosis of diseases before serious symptoms appear is sought.
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The breast cancer programme is aimed at all women aged 45 to 74 who are in Greece and have a breast cancer card, whether they are insured or uninsured. An important element of its implementation is the use of digital technologies, which facilitate the information of beneficiaries and the organisation of examinations. Through digital notification and online services, beneficiaries can easily and directly schedule their mammograms without any financial burden.
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The exams covered by the program make up a comprehensive screening framework. The primary screening is digital mammography, which is provided free of charge to all women participating in the program. Mammography is the most important method of early detection of possible breast lesions.
In cases where a finding emerges or further investigation is deemed necessary, the program also covers additional diagnostic tests. In particular, a breast ultrasound is provided free of charge, and where required, a clinical examination by a physician is performed to evaluate the results.
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The programme is implemented through an extensive network of public and private health facilities across the country. Diagnostic centres and hospitals participate in the process, offering women the opportunity to have their tests close to their place of residence. This is intended to increase participation in screening and remove geographical or economic barriers.
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It is worth noting that PREAMBLE for breast cancer is part of a wider national prevention strategy covering almost the entire population. The same programme also provides free screening tests for cervical cancer and colorectal cancer, as well as tests to assess cardiovascular risk. At the same time, programmes related to the prevention of kidney dysfunction and the treatment of adult obesity are included in the same framework.
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As Deputy Health Minister Irini Agapidaki stresses, “strengthening preventive screening programmes is a key priority for our country’s public health policy, as early diagnosis can make a substantial contribution to improving the health of the population and reducing premature deaths.”
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The results of the programme to date highlight the crucial role that systematic prevention can play in public health. The large number of tests and the findings detected at an early stage underline the importance of involving citizens in organised screening programmes.
