Nearly eight million Italians forgo free cancer screenings

Italians don't believe in cancer screening, even when it's free, and they massively miss out on an important opportunity for effective cancer prevention. In 2024, according to data from the National Screening Observatory, analyzed by the GIMBE Foundation, over 7,6 million people missed out on organized and free cancer screening programs . The situation varies greatly depending on the type of screening: participation was approximately 53,8% for mammography , 42% for cervical screening , and just 35,8% for colorectal screening.

But the most disconcerting differences are the geographical ones, as the table shows:

But what are the main causes of this massive waste, so harmful to the health of so many Italians?

The main reasons are these: 

• Not everyone is actually reached well by the system. In 2024, the rate of invitations varied significantly between regions. For example, for mammography, it was 87,5% in the South and Islands, compared to over 100% in the North and Central Italy. 
• Waiting lists and organizational difficulties can make it more difficult to join, especially where services are less efficient.
• Huge territorial differences. For the colorectal the adherence was 46,8% in the North, but only of the 21,1% in the South and the IslandsFor mammography the gap was 63,2% versus 40,1%. 
• Fear or discomfort about the exam. In particular, some tests are perceived as annoying, invasive or embarrassing.
• Underestimation of risk: Many people who feel well think they don't need screening. But that's precisely the purpose of screening: to identify a disease. before it shows symptoms.
• Socioeconomic and cultural conditions. The ONS emphasizes that socioeconomic determinants significantly influence participation in prevention.

Read also:

• Cancer Prevention: The Golden Rules
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