In recent years, the importance of health prevention and early detection has come up more often—and for good reason. The OECD’s 2023 "Country Health Profile" for Hungary highlights that Hungarian women’s participation in cancer screenings is below what we’d hope for. Simply put: for breast cancer screening (women aged 50-69), participation in Hungary was around 60% in 2019, while the EU average was about 66%. For cervical (uterine) screening, Hungary was slightly above the EU average at 63% versus 60% in 2019. However, colorectal cancer screening participation was only 15% nationwide, compared to the EU average near 33%. So, although Hungary isn’t last in every area, there’s definitely room to improve women’s screening rates.
Let me be clear: I’m not a healthcare expert, but from my personal experience, I have a few ideas on how we could boost these numbers.
First: the painfully long waiting lists and difficulties booking appointments create a barrier that already discourages many. I’ve noticed most people get stuck thinking, “I should go sometime,” which quickly turns into procrastination. When booking is complicated—only available in certain time slots, only by phone, multiple rings before someone answers, dates arranged only by live conversation without seeing all options—many just don’t bother. This could be easily fixed if online appointment booking was available at every healthcare facility. It would ease phone system overload and still allow those who prefer calling to book by phone.
Second: the attitude of healthcare staff is often overlooked. Many share that after their first or second screening experience, they decided, “Okay, I did it once, but I won’t go again.” A single rude comment, an impatient nurse or doctor, or an uncomfortable exam atmosphere can be enough to keep someone away for years—or forever. I believe sensitivity training and education are crucial for doctors, nurses, and assistants performing these screenings—to understand that what’s routine for them can be scary, uncertain, and vulnerable for patients. If healthcare centers create a culture where women feel supported, treated as partners, and genuinely cared for, we can make huge progress.
Third: and this might be especially important—let’s not forget those who struggle with childcare or family responsibilities when trying to get screened. Many moms with young kids (or single dads) find it hard to secure an appointment because they don’t have anyone to watch their children. Providing free childcare services during screenings—at least in major screening centers—would solve this. Of course, I know this—and everything else on my list—costs money. But treating late-diagnosed illnesses is expensive too. And if we look strictly at numbers, supporting children who lose their parents isn’t likely cheaper than giving parents the chance to get proper healthcare.
When we stop seeing those who miss or delay screenings as just statistics, it becomes clear: change is worth it. Because behind every number is a human life. And that, I believe, is priceless.
