Population screening

Cervical cancer is most common in women between the ages of 30 and 60. Are you in this age group? If so, we invite you to participate in the cervical cancer screening programme.

There are two ways to participate in the study:

• With a self-sampling kit
• With a smear test

After turning 50, you will automatically receive an invitation for breast cancer screening in the Netherlands. Women between the ages of 50 and 75 normally receive this invitation every two years. During the screening, an X-ray of the breasts is taken, also known as a mammogram. A doctor then assesses whether the breast images look normal or whether further investigation is needed.

The aim of this screening programme is to detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before you notice any symptoms yourself. Participation in the screening programme is voluntary. It is important to know that there are both advantages and disadvantages. You can therefore decide for yourself whether or not to participate.

Please note: if you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a lump or a change in shape or skin, do not wait for an invitation to the screening programme, but contact your GP immediately. Early detection can make all the difference.

Colorectal cancer is a serious and common disease. Polyps and bowel cancer are more common in people over the age of 55. That is why everyone between the ages of 55 and 75 receives an invitation to participate in the screening programme every two years. The purpose of this screening is to detect bowel cancer as early as possible, even before someone has any symptoms. Participation is free and voluntary. You decide for yourself whether you want to participate.