DH to launch free breast cancer screening for high-risk women

Women aged 35 to 74 who are at high-risk of breast cancer can undergo free screenings starting June 10 as the Department of Health launches the second phase of a breast cancer screening pilot program.

Those eligible can receive assessments and mammograms at seven sites across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories operated by a public-private partnership.

High-risk groups include those with certain gene mutations or a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Participants must be asymptomatic, without breast cancer history, and have not had a mammography screening in the past year.

Under the pilot program, three non-governmental service providers – Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation, United Christian Nethersole Community Health Service, and Haven of Hope Christian Service – operate seven screening sites across the city.

Starting from tomorrow (May 30), they may contact any one of the three NGOs’ designated clinics to make an appointment for assessment and arrange for mammography screenings.

Additional ultrasound mammograms will be arranged for those who are confirmed to carry specific genetic mutations. While a co-payment of up to HK$225 per mammogram or breast ultrasound was set, all service providers are currently waiving this fee.

Head of Non-communicable Disease Branch at the Department of Health Chee Anne stressed: “This means qualified women will not need to pay out of pocket for breast cancer screenings,” she stressed.

The initiative aims to promote early detection and reduce financial barriers to preventive care. Health authorities urge qualified women to take advantage of the service when registration opens.

(Cheng Wong)