Prevention is the most important tool in the fight against cervical cancer, one of the most common gynaecological cancers worldwide. In recent years, the medical community has placed particular emphasis on preventive screening, as early detection can identify precancerous changes before they develop into cancer.
In Greece, an important initiative in this direction is the Doxiadis Programme for Cervical Cancer Prevention, which offers free screening to women in specific age groups.
The Doxiadis Programme is a national prevention programme aimed at the early detection of precancerous cervical lesions and cervical cancer. Through organised population screening, thousands of women are given the opportunity to undergo free examinations, making a significant contribution to reducing the incidence of the disease.
The programme includes examinations such as:
This initiative represents an important step for public health, as it strengthens both prevention and awareness among women.
Cervical cancer is strongly associated with infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Infection with certain types of HPV can cause cellular changes which, over time, may develop into cancer.
The progression of the disease is usually slow and may take several years. This means there is an important window of opportunity for early detection and treatment of abnormalities before cancer develops.
Regular preventive screening with HPV testing and Pap smear testing allows:
Thanks to systematic screening, cervical cancer is now considered one of the most preventable cancers.
The programme is intended for women aged 21 to 65 years who hold an AMKA or PAAYPA number.
For women in this age group, the programme provides:
The Pap smear is usually recommended every 3 years, provided the results are normal.
For women aged 30 to 65 years, the programme includes:
The HPV test detects the types of HPV associated with an increased risk of developing cervical cancer.
If the result is normal, the test is usually repeated every 5 years.
Women in the eligible age groups are usually informed through the electronic prescribing system or through health services so that they can arrange their examination.
Participation in the programme is particularly important, even for women who do not have symptoms, as precancerous lesions often do not cause obvious signs.
Women in the eligible age groups are informed through:
After receiving notification, they can book an appointment with a gynaecologist or a participating healthcare unit to undergo the examination.
The prevention programme includes the main tests used internationally for cervical cancer screening.
The HPV test detects the presence of HPV, particularly the types associated with a higher risk of cancer development.
It is now considered one of the most reliable methods of preventive screening.
The Pap smear examines cells from the cervix and can detect cellular abnormalities before they develop into cancer.
In many cases, it is used alongside the HPV test for a more complete assessment.
If the screening result indicates a possible abnormality, the programme also covers further diagnostic investigations, such as:
The aim is to identify precancerous changes early so that they can be treated before they progress to cancer.
The gynaecologist plays a key role in informing and guiding women regarding cervical cancer prevention.
During the consultation, the following may be carried out:
In addition, the doctor may advise the woman on:
Appropriate guidance helps women maintain regular and effective monitoring of their health.
Organised prevention programmes such as the Doxiadis Programme make an important contribution to reducing the incidence and mortality of cervical cancer.
Raising awareness among women and encouraging participation in screening are essential factors for the success of such programmes. Through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many cases of cancer can be prevented before they develop.
Regular gynaecological screening, combined with access to organised prevention programmes, is an important step in maintaining women’s health and wellbeing.
