Cancer is a serious disease and the main cause of death in Europe. It is estimated that 2.7 million people in the Union were diagnosed with cancer in 2020. On the basis of these data, it is estimated that every other citizen of the Union will get cancer during his or her lifetime, which will affect his or her quality of life for a long time, with only half of all cancer patients surviving. In order to reduce the incidence and mortality of oncology diseases, the EC therefore recommends organised screening programmes, which allow screening to detect cancer at an early stage, or even before it becomes invasive, which means that patients have a better chance of being cured.

In Slovakia, 3 screening programmes are in place since 2019 in a state-organised form: cervical cancer screening, rectal and colon cancer screening, as well as breast screening. Screening is a procedure in which the presence of the disease is tested in people who have no symptoms. It is important that those involved in screening should also undergo these examinations even if they feel healthy. To raise awareness of the possibility of preventive examinations, the Ministry of Health has prepared a joint campaign on ONKOCONTROLA in the Working Group on Communication on Screenings, which includes representatives from the Ministry of Health, the National Cancer Institute, patient organisations and health insurance companies. We want to address the relevant age groups who are entitled to regular free screening examinations. In addition to television and radio spot, the campaign also includes a leaflet that will be distributed to the gynecologists, urologists, gastroenterologists, as well as general doctors, as well as a targeted website www.onkokontrolla.sk , where its visitor will find all relevant and important information: how the examination takes place, who is entitled to an examination, who is to be contacted and where to conduct this examination. Minister of Health Michal Palkovič: In a joint effort to reduce the incidence of cancer, both the state and the citizen play an important role. I consider prevention to be the best way to prevent diseases. That is why I am pleased that the Ministry, along with many who have joined up with carelessness, has prepared a cancer prevention campaign and is working with experts in Slovakia or Europe. I call on all those who are entitled to a screening examination, that is, our on-the-spot check, not to hesitate and certainly to do so. He can literally save their lives.
State Secretary MZ SR Monika Jankechová: I appreciate and thank the authorities and experts who participate in the education of the whole society. This is then the responsibility of the individual to whom we will have to encourage society in the coming years. This is the only way to make our population healthier and less burdened with the healthcare system. It is generally known that prevention is an investment that is more advantageous than later diagnosis and treatment, and therefore this direction and starting is very desirable.
National Institute of Cancer, Jana Trautenberger Rico: The website is intuitive and you can choose which oncocontrol you want to learn more about. You'll find out why to go to an examination, where to go, and how to order for an examination.
Health Insurance Association Michal Štofko: We are pleased that health insurance companies could also join this campaign, which opens their eyes to people to participate more in screenings, to participate more in prevention, simply to be more active, and to be able to limit the huge demand we have for healthcare in Slovakia.
Dr. Alena Kállay, n.f. Pink ribbon: 2 huge steps have taken to promote the health of citizens and citizens of Slovakia. Quality screenings have been developed that run, namely screening of breast, colon and cervix cancer already called onco-control, as well as educational promotional and helping material that will make it clear to people that onco-control can save both life and health and long years of life.
The Ministry of Health would like to thank all those who have worked together and supported the campaign without delay. Thanks also belong to all media, which, whether television or radio spot, will include public service broadcasting in their media area. In addition to members of the working group, students of the Private Secondary School of Industrial Design of Animated Work in Bratislava participated in the production of the spot under the guidance of professional guarantor Karol Holubčík, as well as actors of the Slovak National Theatre: Kamila Magálová, Jana Oľhová, Ján Gallovič, Janka Kovalčíková and Richard Autner read the comment. We all thank you a: Going to oncocontrol is okay.