In 2020, the number of cancer diagnoses saw a decrease, and the coronavirus pandemic could be one of the culprits. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) offers several potential reasons for this trend. Among them are temporarily haltered healthcare services during the pandemic, reduced usage of cancer screening tests, and individuals being less inclined to seek medical attention due to infection fears.
While the RKI can't yet definitively evaluate the impact of these factors on cancer treatment chances and mortality, it's expected to become clear over time. Cancer mortality in Germany continued to decrease in 2021, with approximately 228,000 cancer-related deaths.
Analyzing "Cancer in Germany," released biannually, shows a decline in some screening tests throughout the pandemic. Mammography screenings for breast cancer decreased by almost 9% between 2019 and 2020, corresponding to 263,991 fewer examinations. While skin cancer screenings saw a 20% reduction year-on-year, colonoscopies for colorectal cancer screenings increased by roughly 11,500 procedures in 2020 compared to the previous year.
As for the long-term effects of the pandemic on cancer diagnoses, studies in Kazakhstan suggest a decrease in the detection rates of early and late-stage breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers. In contrast, late-onset colorectal cancer cases saw a decrease in detection rates, while early-onset cases appeared more frequently.
Some recent developments in Germany include an enhanced ColoAlert colorectal cancer screening test launched by Mainz Biomed and GANZIMMUN Diagnostics. This advanced test features revolutionary DNA stabilizing buffer to ensure accurate results regardless of sample volume. Additionally, Germany updated its national screening program to provide equal access to both male and female screening tests starting at age 50. This update further integrates preventive measures into healthcare settings.
Sources: - - [2 sources omitted for brevity]
