Over 90% Cure Rate Possible with Early Cancer Detection

Mapo-gu Promotes National Cancer Screening...Supports Cancer Screening Costs for Low-Income Groups

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Mapo-gu (Mayor Yudonggyun) has actively promoted early cancer screening for residents who are eligible for the national cancer screening program but have not yet undergone screening.

The national cancer screening program helps low-income groups with relatively limited access to medical care by supporting the cost of cancer screening, enabling them to receive examinations.

The program provides cancer screening for the five major cancers (stomach, liver, colorectal, breast, cervical) and lung cancer to medical aid recipients, health insurance subscribers, and dependents who fall within the bottom 50% based on the insurance premium criteria (as of November 2020).

Eligible individuals can receive free screening at any medical institution designated as a national cancer screening center nationwide. They need to bring the screening voucher sent by mail from the National Health Insurance Corporation and their ID, then make a reservation and visit the screening center.

Screening eligibility and designated screening institutions can be confirmed by contacting the National Health Insurance Service or checking the Health Insurance Corporation website.

Meanwhile, if cancer is detected through the national cancer screening, the local public health center also provides medical expense support. However, for health insurance subscribers, new support will be discontinued starting July, so it is important to complete screening by June 30 to not miss out on medical expense benefits.

The five major cancers and lung cancer, which are common in Korea, can be detected early through relatively simple methods, and if detected and treated early, more than 90% can be cured.

Yudonggyun, Mayor of Mapo-gu, said, “We hope that residents recognize the necessity of the national cancer screening program and that Mapo becomes a healthy community free from cancer worries through this program.” He added, “For residents who have not yet been screened, we urge you to get screened as soon as possible for the best cancer treatment method, early detection.”