National screening programs for cervical cancer, breast cancer and colorectal cancer are being implemented in Montenegro, which are expected to reduce deaths from these types of cancer in the coming period (detection at earlier stages) and partially reduce morbidity (by detecting premalignant changes and treating them), the Institute of Public Health of Montenegro (IJZCG) announced today.
They made the announcement on the occasion of February 4th, World Cancer Day.

"World Cancer Day is a unique global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the prevalence of cancer in the population. The celebration of this day emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, early detection of the disease and the availability of timely treatment with the aim of improving the quality of life of those affected. This year's theme of World Cancer Day 'United through Oneness' highlights the importance of cooperation, inclusion and shared commitment to improving healthcare for all people with cancer. This theme emphasizes the importance of personalized care and treatments that are tailored to the unique needs of each individual," the IJZCG statement states.
They added that this day is an opportunity to unite individuals, organizations, communities and decision-makers in taking action and supporting measures that should result in higher survival rates for cancer patients.
"The goal of organizing events and activities around the world is to educate individuals and provide support to patients and families facing this disease. Malignant diseases, which are second in terms of the number of patients and deaths after cardiovascular diseases, represent a growing public health problem. According to estimates by the World Health Organization and the International Agency for Research on Cancer for 2022, about 10 million deaths from all localizations of malignant tumors were registered, while 19,9 million people suffered from some form of cancer. The most common forms of malignant diseases in terms of mortality are lung cancer, colorectal cancer and liver cancer. The burden of malignant diseases is expected to reach as many as 26 million new diagnoses and 17 million deaths by 2030," the statement reads.
The Institute of Public Health of Montenegro said that the growing trend of cancer is associated with an increase in life expectancy and the overall increase in the population, and that the risk increases significantly if risk factors such as tobacco consumption, improper diet, high body mass index, infections, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, air pollution, etc. are present.
"According to the World Health Organization's estimate from 2022, there were 2.739 new cases of malignant diseases in Montenegro. Similar to other developing countries, our population most often suffers from lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer. Men most often suffer from lung cancer (21,9%), followed by prostate cancer (15,5%) and colon cancer (11,2%). Women most often suffer from breast cancer (31,4%), lung cancer (8,2%), colon cancer (7,7%), uterine cancer (7,2%) and cervical cancer (4,4%). When it comes to age, the population between 50 and 64 years of age is most often affected," the IJZCG statement reads.
The institution said that the prevalence of malignant diseases in the population is concerning and that it points to the importance of prevention as a key component and the most cost-effective long-term strategy of all programs aimed at reducing the incidence of malignant diseases.
"Research shows that mortality can be prevented by as much as 40% by implementing appropriate preventive interventions and promoting healthy lifestyles, while one third of those affected can be cured through early diagnosis and timely, adequate treatment. National screening programs for cervical cancer, breast cancer and colorectal cancer are being implemented in Montenegro, which are expected to reduce deaths from the aforementioned types of cancer (detection at earlier stages) and partially reduce morbidity (by detecting premalignant changes and treating them)," said the Institute of Public Health of Montenegro.
They state that the European Code Against Cancer (an initiative of the European Commission and the International Agency for Research on Cancer WHO) aims to inform and educate the population about the measures that individuals can take for themselves and their families, adhering to the application of the 'Twelve Steps to Reduce the Risk of Cancer' and thus reduce the risk of contracting this disease.
European Code Against Cancer, available HERE.
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