Population research
Have you received an invitation to take part in a population screening, but don't know what it entails? Then read on.
A population screening is a medical examination of people who do not experience any symptoms. The examination aims to find disease, an inherited predisposition to disease or factors that make disease more likely. Participation in population screening is voluntary and free of charge.
In the Netherlands, we have three population screening tests for cancer, namely the population screening tests for breast cancer, cervical cancer and bowel cancer. You may be invited to take part. See what this means for you.
The various population surveys
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is most common in women aged between 30 and 60. Are you in this age group? If so, we’d like to invite you to take part in the cervical cancer screening programme.
There are two ways to take part in the survey:
- With a self-testing kit
- With a smear test
Breast cancer
Once you turn 50, you will automatically receive an invitation to the breast cancer screening programme in the Netherlands. Women aged between 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 mammograms look normal or whether further investigation is required.
The aim of this screening programme is to detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before you notice any symptoms yourself. Taking part in the programme is voluntary. It is important to be aware that there are both advantages and disadvantages. It is therefore up to you to decide whether or not to take part.
Please note: if you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a lump or a change in shape or skin texture, do not wait for an invitation to the screening programme – contact your GP straight away. Early detection can make all the difference.
Bowel cancer
Bowel cancer is a serious disease that is common. Polyps and colon cancer are more common in people over 55 years old. That is why everyone aged 55 to 75 receives an invitation for the population screening every two years. This screening aims to detect bowel cancer as early as possible. Even before someone has symptoms. Participation is free and voluntary. You decide for yourself whether to take part.
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