Early Detection Efforts in Madrid Yield Meaningful Impact

Madrid’s commitment to early cancer detection is paying off,with complete screening programs showing substantial results in reducing mortality rates and improving early diagnosis. Almudena Quintana, general care director of the Madrid Health Service (Sermas), recently shared key figures highlighting the success of these initiatives.

In 2024, the Community of Madrid conducted 384,000 early detection tests for breast cancer in women aged 50 to 69.with coverage greater than 90 percent to the target population and with a participation that continues to increase, the early stages detection rate has increased significantly and mortality has been reduced by 30 percent in women who participate in the program, Quintana stated during a Health Commission session. This response addressed a query from Deputy Sara Bonmati regarding the effectiveness of the region’s oncological screening programs.

Advanced Technology Enhances Breast Cancer Screening

The integration of advanced technology, specifically volosynthesis, has further enhanced the accuracy of breast cancer screening. Quintana emphasized that volosynthesis, a advanced technology that improves the quality of mammographic images, allows for earlier and more accurate diagnoses, especially in women with dense breasts. This technology leads to improved accuracy in diagnoses reducing false negatives.

Colon Cancer Screening: A Model of Success

Madrid’s colon cancer screening program is recognized for its high participation rates and significant public health impact. In 2024, the program achieved a 47.4 percent participation rate among individuals aged 50 to 69. Out of 375,000 samples collected, 18,225 tested positive.

This proactive approach has facilitated over 14,000 colonoscopies,with 79 percent revealing early-stage injuries such as adenomas or polyps. the implementation of this program has been key in reducing colorectal cancer mortality and the forecast is that in the coming years, with the expansion of coverage and the best participation, more significant results are achieved in terms of early prevention and treatment, Quintana noted.

Cervical Cancer prevention: An Advanced Approach

Cervical cancer screening in Madrid utilizes HPV testing and cytology for women aged 25 to 65. This advanced detection method identifies precursor lesions, enabling timely treatment before they progress into invasive cancer. It is indeed one of the few cancers that can be prevented, almost entirely, with an early diagnosis and proper treatment, Quintana explained, underscoring the program’s preventative capabilities.