Detect colorectal cancer in time
Will you take part in population screening?
What is population screening?
The population screening programme for colorectal cancer aims to detect this form of cancer as early as possible. If we catch it early, colorectal cancer can often be prevented. Early detection also makes it more likely that your cancer can be cured. Colorectal cancer screening is free. You can decide if you want to take part. The colorectal cancer screening programme is for all adults aged 55 to 75 years.
For women, population screening is also offered for cervical cancer and breast cancer.
Why is the colorectal cancer screening programme so important?
- Every year, 12,000 people develop colorectal cancer.
- Colorectal cancer is most common among people over 55.
- This form of cancer can be prevented by taking part in the national screening programme.
- The first signs of colorectal cancer often go unnoticed. Taking part in cancer screening is important.
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer usually starts as a lump on the inside of the colon. This is called a polyp. Most polyps are harmless, but some polyps can develop into colorectal cancer. This form of cancer is especially likely if polyps start growing bigger. Polyps usually do not cause any symptoms at all. By removing polyps, colorectal cancer can be prevented.
Who is colorectal cancer screening intended for?
The population screening programme for colorectal cancer is for adults aged 55 to 75 years. You will be invited to take part every 2 years. As a result, it is more likely that polyps will be detected early, so fewer people will eventually develop colorectal cancer.
How can I take part?
You will receive an invitation letter at home which includes a stool test.
You use the test at home and send the sample in.
Researchers look for blood in your stool (poo). If there is blood, it could mean that you have a polyp.
Within 2 weeks, you will receive a letter with the results.
First-hand experiences
“Taking part felt like a hassle”
“We need to talk about it more”
Frequently asked questions
I lost my invitation. What should I do?
Contact us. Call 088-0001388 or send an e-mail to informatie@bevolkingsonderzoeknederland.nl.
When will I receive an invitation for the National Screening Programme for Colorectal Cancer?
You will receive your first invitation for colorectal cancer screening within one year after your 55th birthday. After that, you will be invited every 2 years, continuing until you are 75.
Will my GP get the results?
You will receive the results from us. If you would like, we can send your GP a message if more testing is needed. We could also contact your GP if the test shows an unfavourable outcome and you do not respond to the hospital referral letter. If you want that to happen, you will need to provide the contact details for your GP. You can provide this information at My Screening or let us know by calling 088-0001388.
I would prefer not to be invited. Is that possible?
Yes, that is possible. You can be unsubscribed, to prevent you from receiving future invitations for the population screening programme for colorectal cancer.
You can arrange this online at My Screening (log in with your DigiD).
You can also send an e-mail to informatie@bevolkingsonderzoeknederland.nl or call 088-0001388. In that case, you will receive a form to fill out. To permanently unsubscribe from the invitations, we need your signature.