Khaberni - In the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the issue of early cancer screening is among the top priorities of the health sector, due to the significant impact that early detection can have in improving treatment chances and reducing mortality rates.
It involves the Jordanian Ministry of Health, the Jordan Breast Cancer Program, and other institutions as part of the national cancer awareness campaign.
But the most important question is: Is the free screening campaign in Jordan, referred to as the free cancer screening campaign, still available? What are the current details?
What is the context of the campaign and its importance
One of the biggest challenges in cancer control is detecting it at advanced stages, which decreases the chances for successful treatment and increases costs and complications.
Therefore, early detection, especially in cases like breast cancer, has become an urgent necessity. Terms like "early cancer detection" or "early cancer screening" have become true slogans within Jordan, where awareness campaigns have been launched and screening services implemented in several provinces.
The Jordan Breast Cancer Program clarifies that among its services are "offering early clinical screening for free, and at reduced prices for radiography" during campaign periods.
This also includes collaboration with the Ministry of Health to ensure services reach women in various provinces.
What is the current situation?
According to recent reports, there are some facts that we need to consider:
Availability of screening units
A number of “breast imaging units” approved in Jordan have been identified in many provinces, within the framework of enhancing early screening services in multiple locations.
Free / reduced services during limited campaigns
The Jordan Breast Cancer Program indicates that it "offers early clinical screening services for free, and at reduced prices for radiography … during the October campaign each year."
This means that free screening is not necessarily available throughout the year or automatically at all times, but usually during specific campaigns.
Participation rates are relatively low
Recent studies indicate that the rate of mammogram service use in Jordan is still low (about 10.4% of the women participating in one sample had undergone mammography) due to multiple factors including cost, doctor recommendation, and lack of awareness.
So, is the campaign still available?
We can say that: Yes, the campaign is still available, but not permanently or comprehensively for everyone at any time. Here are
the detailed specifics:
There are regular educational and screening campaigns, launched by the Jordan Breast Cancer Program in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, such as the "Promise to Screen" campaign and other initiatives.
During these campaigns, screening – or clinical examination and mammography – is provided free or at a reduced cost to uninsured women or those in need.
However: There is currently no permanent national program that provides comprehensive and continuous free screening for all women at all times, a recent study said: "In the absence of a regular national free screening program … usage will remain low."
What should you know if you're considering participating?
Follow the official announcements: from the Ministry of Health and the Jordan Breast Cancer Program to know the dates of the upcoming campaign.
Make sure the screening center: follows or is accredited within the announced list of units, as there are accredited units in several provinces in Jordan.
Ask about the cost: If the campaign is not completely free, as there may be a discount but not total free of charge.
Do not delay the exam: Early detection of breast cancer and with other types of cancer is one of the most important stages of prevention and early treatment.
Recommendations and looking forward
It would be beneficial for there to be a transition towards a comprehensive and continuous program for free screening in Jordan, so that it does not depend only on annual or seasonal campaigns.
Enhancing awareness and reducing barriers (such as cost, distance, information) helps increase participation rates.
Expanding the screenings to include other types of cancers besides breast cancer, within the framework of "early cancer screening" in general.
Community participation and partnership with the private sector and civil society can support the sustainability of "the free cancer screening campaign" and its expansion.
The "free cancer screening campaign," or at least the free screening campaigns within the framework of early cancer detection in Jordan, are still ongoing, implemented by entities such as the Jordan Breast Cancer Program in cooperation with the Ministry of Health.
However, it is not yet a permanent and inclusive free program at all times and for all women without exception, so if you are interested in participating, we recommend following the dates and announcements, and knowing the details in your area.
