Gyeongsan Prioritizes Family Health with Enhanced national Screening Programs
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City initiatives focus on early detection and prevention during Family Month, May
By Archynetys News
Focus on Preventative Care
Gyeongsan City, under the leadership of Mayor Cho Hyun-il, is launching a thorough campaign centered around the theme of precious Family Health and National Health Checkup
. This initiative aims to encourage residents to proactively monitor their health and that of their loved ones through the National Health Checkup and National Cancer Screening programs.
Expanded National Health checkup Program
As of 2025, all citizens aged 20 and older are eligible for the National Health Checkup. This extensive screening includes tests for early detection of chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and urinary abnormalities. Additional tests, tailored by gender and age, cover lipidemia, hepatitis, and mental health assessments. These measures are crucial, considering that, according to the World Health Association, early detection and management of chronic diseases can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
Free Cancer Screening Initiative
The city is also actively promoting six national cancer screenings targeting gastric, liver, colon, breast, cervical, and lung cancers. These screenings are available free of charge to medical aid beneficiaries and those in the lower 50% of health insurance premiums. This initiative addresses a critical need, as cancer remains a leading cause of mortality in South Korea.
Early detection is paramount. According to recent studies, when major cancers are detected and treated early, the cure rate can exceed 90%, substantially decreasing mortality rates. This underscores the importance of regular screenings and proactive health management.
Local Cancer Incidence Rates
Data from 2016-2022 reveals the age-standardized incidence rates per 100,000 people in Gyeongsan City:
These figures highlight the importance of targeted screening and prevention efforts within the community.
Financial Support for Cancer Patients
recognizing the financial burden associated with cancer treatment,Gyeongsan City provides medical expenses of up to 3 million won for individuals diagnosed with cancer through the national screening programs. This support is available to medical aid beneficiaries and those with self-pay expenses at the second level or below, further easing the financial strain on affected families.
Raising Awareness and Participation
To boost participation in these vital health programs, Gyeongsan City is employing a multi-faceted approach:
- Active promotion via social media and the city hall website.
- Outreach through administrative welfare centers, health centers, and local clinics.
- Public service announcements on display boards throughout the city.
- Direct dialog with eligible residents through personalized text messages and guidance.
Call to Action
Ahn Byung-sook emphasized the need for increased participation, noting that As of 2024, the national cancer screening rate is 36.84%, and the colon cancer screening rate is still low at 23.5%.
These figures highlight the urgent need to raise awareness and encourage more residents to take advantage of these life-saving programs.
