Cancer is a very insidious disease that can remain
asymptomatic until the late stages. Therefore, preventive
screening and regular visits to a physician play a crucial
role in early diagnosis.
This is one of those cases where it is better to be safe
and undergo an examination even with the slightest suspicion.
Screening is a preventive medical examination of healthy individuals of a certain age group aimed at identifying risk factors and diseases at early stages.
In the “Code on Public Health and the Healthcare System” dated July 7, 2020 № 360-VI ЗРК, the implementation of screening examinations is for the first time regulated by a separate article (Article 87: Screening Examinations), which allows screening to be defined as a distinct healthcare activity.
Screening examinations are carried out among target population groups in order to detect diseases at early stages, prevent disease progression, identify risk factors contributing to the development of diseases, and promote and strengthen public health (Article 87, paragraph 1).
In Kazakhstan, screening is included in the list of the Guaranteed Volume of Free Medical Care.
Today, there are three types of screening programs in the Republic of Kazakhstan aimed at the prevention and early diagnosis of oncological diseases (cancer screening programs).
For the detection of oncological diseases in Kazakhstan, there are three national screening programs:
- Women aged 30–70 years, every 4 years — cervical cancer screening;
- Women aged 40–70 years, every 2 years — breast cancer screening;
- Men and women aged 50–70 years, every 2 years — colorectal cancer screening.
It is important to understand that prevention, early diagnosis, screening, and treatment are key components of successful cancer control. Early detection of cancer saves lives, reduces treatment costs, and helps preserve the quality of life of patients.
Citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan can undergo medical examinations at their territorially assigned polyclinics. Screening examinations are carried out free of charge by healthcare professionals according to a pre-prepared list of individuals (target groups) eligible for screening. The necessary scope of examination and diagnostic procedures is determined, and if any pathology is detected during the preventive examination, patients are referred for further evaluation and consultation with relevant specialists.
Screening services in polyclinics are provided through pre-medical assessment rooms, as well as male and female examination rooms.
