National Program for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer
The Ministry of Health has set as a strategic objective the elimination of cervical cancer cases caused by the HPV virus. For this reason:
a) HPV vaccination coverage has already been extended to include girls and boys aged 15–18, and the vaccine is reimbursed by EOPYY.
b) It is of utmost importance that all beneficiaries of the cervical cancer prevention program make use of the free preventive examinations and participate in the screening program, as the earlier the disease is detected, the easier and more effectively it can be treated.
It is essential to note that the overwhelming majority of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). Through the free preventive examinations, it is possible to detect early both potential precancerous and cancerous lesions, as well as the HPV types responsible for them, even before these lead to cellular abnormalities. In this way, prevention becomes significantly more effective.
The free examination program is addressed to all women aged 21 to 65 who have not been diagnosed with cervical cancer and who possess an AMKA number, regardless of whether they are insured or uninsured.
According to the European guidelines applicable to population-based screening in asymptomatic women for the prevention of cervical cancer, as well as the scientific protocol recommended by the Public Health Expert Committee, the beneficiaries of the program are:
Women aged 21 to 29 who have not undergone a PAP test or HPV-DNA test during the previous three (3) calendar years. These beneficiaries are entitled to:
- Undergo a gynecological examination and PAP test and, where specific findings arise,
- Attend an appointment with a Gynecologist for a colposcopy and biopsy.
Women aged 30 to 65 who have not undergone an HPV-DNA test during the previous five (5) calendar years and a PAP test during the previous three (3) calendar years. These beneficiaries are entitled to:
- Undergo a gynecological examination and HPV-DNA test and, where specific findings arise,
- Attend an appointment with a Gynecologist for a colposcopy and biopsy.
For more information, please visit the Program’s webpage:
To view the Collaborating Examination Centers, please follow the link below:
https://testpap.gov.gr/synergazomena-kentra-dienergeias-exetaseon/
