After the breast cancer screening (May 2021) and the cervical cancer screening (November 2022), the population screening for colon cancer also starts in Bonaire. In April, the first 264 invitations will be sent out. Everyone in the target group (men and women aged 55 to 75) will receive an invitation within two years. Residents of Bonaire who fall within the target group but have not received an invitation can register themselves for participation.
Participation
The target group in Bonaire consists of approximately 6,000 individuals. Some of this group may not yet be familiar with the concept of population screening, and we expect to encounter a taboo. It is still difficult to estimate what the participation rate will be among the target group. We know from Curaçao that the participation rate there is significantly lower than in continental Netherlands. Providing good information and raising awareness about the population screening and follow-up care is therefore essential to make an informed choice.
Screening Process
The screening process is organized differently in some aspects than in continental Netherlands. For example, the stool tests are not sent with the invitation by post but can be picked up at Bonlab (laboratory). When picking up the test, a staff member explains how to use the test. The analysis of the tests takes place at MLS, a laboratory in Curaçao. If a screening colonoscopy needs to be performed after a positive result, this will take place at Fundashon Mariadal hospital.
Kick-off Meeting
After a period of intensive preparations, a kick-off meeting was held on March 26 with all involved chain partners.
Colon Cancer Screening in the Bovenwinden
The expectation is that later this year, colon cancer screening will also be introduced in Sint Eustatius and Saba.