From Monday, Walloon residents over the age of 50 can obtain a free colorectal cancer screening test from pharmacies.
Colon cancer accounts for 13% of all cancers in Belgium and is the country’s second leading cause of death. Nevertheless, early detection of colorectal cancer can result in a 90% cure rate. Hence, regular colon tests are essential.
While free tests have been available in Brussels since 2018, they are now accessible in one of the 1,553 pharmacies in Wallonia. Residents aged 50 to 74 who have not undergone the test in the previous year are eligible, according to a statement by the Association of Pharmacists’ Unions (AUP) and the Cooperative Pharmacies Office of Belgium (Ophaco).
The colon test is a painless lab examination using a stool sample. "A test is positive when blood is detected in the stool, but it is usually not cancer," reassures Lara Kotlar, spokesperson for the Walloon Agency for Quality Life (Aviq). "However, a positive result requires a visit to a general practitioner for a colonoscopy prescription," advises Ms. Kotlar.
This pilot project, led by Aviq, aims to increase participation in Wallonia’s colorectal cancer screening campaign. If successful, the initiative could become permanent. Previously, Walloon residents received mail invitations for screening, but these were often ignored.
