Category: Early detection

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month – March

March is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting prevention of colorectal cancer, one of the most common but also highly treatable cancers when detected early. It is also referred to as colorectal carcinoma.

According to a European Commission report published in March 2021, colorectal cancer accounted for 12.7% of all new cancer diagnoses and 12.4% of all cancer-related deaths in the EU-27 countries in 2020. By 2045, it is estimated that 3.29 million new cases will be diagnosed worldwide, leading to 1.66 million deaths.

The disease occurs more frequently in men than in women, with age being a significant factor. Approximately 90% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer worldwide are over 50 years old.

Prevention and early detection save lives.

Regular screenings, such as colonoscopy, can detect early lesions or precancerous changes before they develop into serious disease. During a colonoscopy, tissue samples (biopsies) can be taken for histological examination if a suspicious lesion is found, and polyps can be removed to prevent progression to cancer.

Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease, the tumor’s molecular characteristics, and the patient’s overall health. Standard therapies include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy—which plays a key role in rectal cancer—as well as targeted therapies and immunotherapies guided by specific molecular biomarkers.

Through the National Colorectal Cancer Screening Program, the goal is to detect precancerous lesions or the disease itself early, allowing prompt intervention and treatment. Adenomatous polyps or early-stage neoplasms have a 100% cure rate when managed at an early stage, highlighting the critical importance of early detection.

For more information, visit the National Colorectal Cancer Screening Program website: https://colon.gov.gr

For any questions, you can contact the service department at tel. 11401 or via email: prolipsis-helpdesk@idika.gr.

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Cancer: From Prevention to Life Coordination – Successful Knowledge Seminar in Megara with Kapa3

With great success and participation from citizens of all ages, the Knowledge Seminar in Megara – From Prevention to Life Coordination took place on Sunday, February 8, in the Council Chamber of the Megara City Hall, in celebration of World Cancer Day.

The event was organized by the Municipality of Megara in collaboration with the Kapa3 Cancer Guidance Center, which since 2020 provides guidance and support to oncology patients and their families, ensuring access to vital information and services.

The seminar opened with a speech by the Mayor of Megara, Panagiotis Margetis, who shared his family’s personal experience with cancer, emphasizing the importance of accurate information and support throughout the patient journey. Stamatis Georgakis, Deputy Mayor for Public Health and Social Protection, coordinated the seminar and highlighted the value of Kapa3 and its Guidance Station in informing, supporting, and advocating for patients’ rights.

Distinguished experts participated in the seminar, presenting key aspects of holistic cancer care:

  • Georgios Nintos, MD MSc, Oncologist: Prevention and early diagnosis, causes, and preventive measures.

  • Katerina Papakonstantinou, MD MSc PhD, Obstetrician-Gynecologist: Gynecologic cancer, importance of HPV vaccination and Pap test.

  • Andrea Paola Rochas, Assistant Professor of Biology, University of Peloponnese Nursing Department: Nutrition and cancer prevention, emphasizing the Mediterranean diet, exercise, and avoidance of processed foods.

  • Maria Lavdaniti, Professor and Head of Nursing Department, International University: Role of oncology nurses in holistic care.

  • Pinelopi Vlotinou, Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, University of West Attica: Daily living support and quality-of-life improvement through occupational therapy.

  • Ioanna Sideri, Psychologist MSc, PhD(c), University of Peloponnese: Psychological support for patients and caregivers, resilience, and crisis management.

  • Grigoria Zacharogianni, MD MSc PhD, Radiation Oncologist: Modern treatment options and importance of moderate exercise during therapy.

The presentation of Kapa3 was delivered by Evangelia Bista, Co-founder and Head of Strategic Partnerships, highlighting the importance of digital literacy and a holistic approach to patient care. Kapa3 has expanded its oncology support network by inaugurating the Cancer Guidance Station in Megara, with the significant support of Megara Resins. In its first year, the station has assisted over 100 beneficiaries, offering guidance on social rights, patient file management, and psychological support, free of charge.

For 2026, Kapa3 is strengthening its digital services with Myrto, Greece’s first AI-powered Health Digital Assistant, providing personalized guidance and voice control. Planned initiatives also include: Wellness in Motion, with 12 outdoor walks for mental wellbeing of young adult cancer patients, the Cancer Wellness Open House Day, and a conference on equitable access to care.

The Knowledge Seminar in Megara – From Prevention to Life Coordination highlighted the importance of prevention, holistic care, interdisciplinary collaboration, digital literacy, psychological support, and continuous patient rights education.

Kapa3 warmly thanks the Municipality of Megara for hosting and supporting the event, as well as all speakers, for their invaluable expertise and commitment to sharing knowledge and scientific know-how.

Explore the photo gallery here:

The Press Release document here

World Pancreatic Cancer Day – 13 November

Every November, World Pancreatic Cancer Day reminds us that behind every statistic there is a life—a life often challenged by one of the most silent yet aggressive forms of cancer.

According to the latest data from the World Health Organization and GLOBOCAN 2022, pancreatic cancer accounts for over 510,000 new cases and 467,000 deaths every year globally.
In Greece, the disease now ranks among the top five cancers in women and the top seven in men, with incidence steadily increasing in recent decades.

Early detection remains a major challenge, as symptoms—such as persistent abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, or jaundice—often emerge only in advanced stages. Yet prevention can make a difference: avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and having regular medical check‑ups are all key steps in protecting pancreatic health.

The disease may also present with digestive changes or the sudden onset of diabetes without obvious cause—signals that warrant prompt attention.

Today is not just about raising awareness—it’s also about supporting patients and their families. With more knowledge, open communication with doctors, and access to specialized care, we can make a difference.

At KAPA3, we join the global community to emphasise that every story matters, and that prevention and early diagnosis can save lives.

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Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for KAPA3