Health Minister Calls for Increased Awareness on Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer diagnosis among women, highlighting the necessity of early detection for improved treatment outcomes. In Austria, approximately 46,000 individuals are diagnosed with cancer annually, with around 21,000 fatalities resulting from the disease each year. Among women, malignant breast tumors accounted for 6,902 cases in 2023, equating to 137 cases per 100,000 women, representing about one-third (31.6%) of all new cancer diagnoses.

Looking ahead, these statistics are expected to rise due to population growth and the increasing average age of the populace. In response to this pressing health issue, the Health Minister has issued a call to action, urging women to prioritize breast cancer screening.

Health Minister Korinna Schumann emphasized the importance of early detection, stating that the earlier breast cancer is identified, the better the chances of successful treatment. To facilitate this, she encouraged all women to take advantage of the free mammography screenings available as part of the national breast cancer early detection program.

This program, which has been in place since 2014, provides all women covered by social health insurance in Austria with access to free and convenient breast cancer screening. Women aged between 45 and 69 are automatically invited to undergo a mammogram every two years without needing a doctor's referral. Their health insurance card (E-Card) is activated automatically for this purpose.

Additionally, uninsured women can request an invitation to the program through a dedicated service hotline at 0800 500 181. This service is also available for women aged 40 and older, as well as those over 70 who wish to participate in the screening initiative.

As the International Breast Cancer Day approaches, the Health Minister's message seeks to raise awareness about the critical role of early detection in combating breast cancer. By encouraging women to engage in regular screenings, the government aims to improve survival rates and promote better health outcomes across the nation.