Organized cancer screening programs

The invitations are based exclusively on age and do not take into account whether a person has possibly already taken part in early detection. This is based on the statutory regulations on organized cancer screening (oKFE).

The use of the examinations is not linked to a prior invitation. If you would like to take part in the examination, make an appointment at your doctor’s surgery. You do not need the invitation letter.

All men and women aged 50 and over who have statutory health insurance receive a written invitation from their health insurance provider to undergo bowel and cervical cancer screening. The aim is to inform as many people as possible about the opportunities for early detection.

Early detection of colorectal cancer

• The invitation is sent to insured persons aged 50, 55, 60 and 65. Important: The invitation letter is not required to claim the benefit, the invitation is merely an indication, the entitlement is based solely on age.
• From the age of 50, women (from April 1, 2025, until then from 55) can have two colonoscopies every ten years, just like men. Alternatively, a stool examination can also be taken advantage of every two years.
• If the findings of the first colonoscopy are inconspicuous, a further colonoscopy is only possible after ten years, and stool examinations are also omitted during this time.

Early detection of cervical cancer

• From the age of 20, the BKK W&F pays for annual cancer screening. Female insured persons will receive a personal invitation for this purpose. The health insurance funds send follow-up reminders every five years. Please note: The invitation letter is not required to claim the benefit.
• Between the ages of 20 and 34, insured persons can have a so-called PAP test once a year. This is a smear test of the cervix, which is examined for altered cells.
• From the age of 35, a combined PAP smear and HPV test can also be used every three years.

Early detection of breast cancer

• Women between the ages of 50 and 75 are entitled to a mammography screening examination every two years and receive a written invitation to the mammography screening program for the early detection of breast cancer.
• The invitation letter is not required to claim the benefit; the invitation is merely an indication and the entitlement is based solely on age.
• The invitation letter is not sent by your health insurance company, but by the so-called central offices of the federal states.
• Do you have any questions or would you like more information? You can find answers and help at https://www.mammo-programm.de/de

Yes, insured persons who have been contacted can informally object to further invitations to colorectal and cervical cancer screening to their health insurance company in writing by post, e-mail or OGS app, stating their insurance details.