Two out of five women in Saxony declined invitations for free mammography screening last year, according to new data from the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians (KV Saxony).
A total of 163,284 women in the state participated in 2024, representing a 57.4 percent participation rate. The figure matches pre-pandemic levels reached in 2019 and positions Saxony among the top five German states for screening attendance.
Screening Aims to Detect Cancer Early
Mammography screening is designed to identify breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more effective and less invasive. All women aged 50 to 75 receive an invitation for a free mammogram every two years, along with an informational brochure verified by health authorities.
During the exam, both breasts are X-rayed to detect any suspicious changes. The primary goal is to reduce breast cancer mortality, enabling timely and less aggressive treatments.
Reasons for Non-Participation
Some women decline screening because they already undergo annual diagnostic mammograms due to known risks, such as family history or an existing diagnosis, explained KV Saxony spokesperson Katharina Bachmann-Bux. Other reasons for opting out, she said, may include a lack of awareness or misconceptions about the procedure.
Gynecologists play a key role in educating patients about the benefits and limitations of mammography, according to KV Saxony officials.
Breast Cancer Remains Most Common Cancer in Women
Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among women. Data from the Robert Koch Institute’s Center for Cancer Registry Data show 74,500 new breast cancer cases nationwide in 2022. Health authorities emphasize that regular participation in screening programs remains critical to early detection and improved survival rates.
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