Invitation to Dora now starts at 45 and continues at 74

Slovenia is preparing to broaden its national breast cancer screening program, Dora, to encompass a wider age range of women. The program, currently focused on specific age groups, intends to extend its reach to women between 45 and 74 years old.

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The expansion of the Dora program to the age group between 45 and 74 years will mean an approximately 40 percent increase in the target population and about 60 percent more follow-up diagnostic examinations.

This significant expansion is expected to increase the targeted population by roughly 40 percent. Consequently, the number of follow-up diagnostic examinations is projected to rise by approximately 60 percent. The move aligns with recommendations from the Council of the European Union, emphasizing a proactive approach to breast cancer detection.

Dr. Katja Kovše, a radiology specialist and the head of the Dora program since last year, explained that the program is currently conducting a research study. This study involves women who have been invited for screening outside the current age parameters. The data gathered will be crucial for planning the program's expansion in the coming years.

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We are intensively preparing for the expansion of the program to the age group between 45 and 74 years, in line with the recommendations of the Council of the European Union.

The long-term objective of the Dora program is to achieve a 25 to 30 percent reduction in mortality rates due to breast cancer within the targeted population. The current research phase is vital for gathering the necessary insights to effectively implement these ambitious goals and improve outcomes for Slovenian women.

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The long-term goal of the program is to reduce mortality from breast cancer in the target population by 25 to 30 percent.