Colorectal cancer screening

Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumour that grows for years without causing any grievances. This type of cancer can be detected at an early stage before it becomes malignant.

60-69-year-old men and women can participate in colorectal cancer screening every two years.

In 2025, all men and women born in 1957, 1959, 1961, 1963, 1965 and 1967 are invited to a free colon cancer screening.

Screening is free of charge (including to uninsured patients).

Colorectal cancer examinations are also performed outside the screening. If you have any complaints, turn to your GP who will refer you for additional testing, if necessary.

Start with your GP

• Your GP or nurse will provide you with a stool sample kit comprising a sample container, a leaflet, a form and an envelope with prepaid postage. You can collect the sample in your own home and send it to the lab indicated on the leaflet.
• If occult blood is discovered in the sample, you must have a colonoscopy. Your family physician will issue a referral to this end.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the large intestine (colon). During the examination, tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken or benign precancerous growths (polyps) removed if necessary.
Both biopsy and polyp removal are generally painless. If any discomfort occurs during the procedure, medications can be administered. After receiving medication, it is not recommended to drive on the same day.

If any abnormality is found in the colon, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to explain the results and discuss further monitoring or treatment options.

Learn more about the colonoscopy procedure and how to prepare for it in the videos:
• What is a colonoscopy and what happens during the procedure?
• How to prepare for a colonoscopy?

Call 620 7077 to register for a colorectal cancer colonoscopy. More information about the examination and counselling are available on the same telephone number Mon-Fri from 08.00–16.00.

More information on colorectal cancer screening is available on the website of the Health Insurance Fund.