Major Cancer Screening Programmes in Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers structured cancer screening services^ to ensure essential health checks are not overlooked due to financial concerns.
Cervical Cancer Screening (Women aged 25–64)
Cervical cancer is one of the common cancers among women in Hong Kong, with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection being the primary cause. Regular screening can detect abnormal cervical cell changes early, long before cancer develops.
Under the Cervical Screening Programme, women aged 25 to 64 are subsidised to undergo a Pap test or HPV test once every three years at public or private healthcare facilities.
The screening procedure involves collecting cervical cell samples using a swab and allows early identification of pre‑cancerous changes. Eligible women may choose their preferred service provider under the programme and make appointments directly.
Example: Cervical screening services provided by Maternal and Child Health Centres of the Department of Health
- Eligibility: Women aged 25–64, holders of a Hong Kong Identity Card or Certificate of Exemption, with no symptoms related to cervical cancer
- Procedure: Call the Cervical Screening Programme hotline → select appointment service → choose a Maternal and Child Health Centre with available time slots → complete booking
- Fees: HKD 100 for eligible persons; HKD 205 for non‑eligible persons
Colorectal Cancer Screening (Ages 50–75)
Colorectal cancer became the most common cancer in Hong Kong in 2011. The Government launched the Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme to support early detection by providing free screening for eligible, asymptomatic residents aged 50 to 75.
Participants first undergo a faecal occult blood test, which checks for tiny traces of blood in the stool that are not visible to the naked eye. If the test result is positive, participants will be referred for a colonoscopy to identify and remove polyps that may otherwise develop into cancer.
- Eligibility: Aged 50–75 (born between 1950 and 1976), holders of a Hong Kong Identity Card or Certificate of Exemption, enrolled in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System, asymptomatic, and without high‑risk factors
- Procedure: Enrol in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System → consult a primary care doctor → collect stool samples at home → faecal occult blood test → Positive result: referral for colonoscopy; Negative result: repeat test every two years
- Fees: The entire screening process is fully subsidised by the Government
Breast Cancer Screening (High‑risk Women aged 35–74)
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Hong Kong, with over 5,000 new cases reported each year. Instead of population‑wide screening, the public health approach focuses on women identified as having a higher personal risk.
Under the Phase Two Breast Cancer Screening Pilot Programme, the Government subsidises mammography and ultrasound screening for eligible high‑risk women aged 35 to 74 at designated clinics.
Currently, participating service providers include the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation Breast Health Centre, United Christian Nethersole Community Health Service Health Centres, and Haven of Hope Christian Service clinics. Eligible women may make appointments directly with the service provider of their choice.
- Eligibility: Women aged 35–74, holders of a Hong Kong Identity Card or Certificate of Exemption, with no breast cancer symptoms or history, without high‑risk factors, and who have not undergone mammography screening in the past year
- Procedure: Contact service provider → book assessment → eligible participants schedule imaging → attend designated medical imaging centre for mammography → Abnormal result: follow‑up plan arranged by doctor; Normal result: annual assessment and screening may continue
- Fees: Free screening is currently offered by the participating service providers listed above
Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer‑related death in Hong Kong, with heavy smokers facing the highest risk. Low‑dose computed tomography (LDCT) is recognised as the most effective method for detecting early‑stage lung cancer.
At present, there is no territory‑wide government‑funded lung cancer screening programme. However, some private hospitals offer targeted, self‑paid LDCT screening programmes for high‑risk individuals. Example:
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong Medical Centre provides a lung cancer screening programme led by specialist doctors, using LDCT to support early diagnosis of lung cancer and other lung conditions.
A Simple 3‑Step Approach to Cancer Screening
- Review your eligibility based on age, gender, and personal risk factors
- Consult your doctor to determine suitable screening options
- Adopt ongoing health management, combining regular screening, healthy lifestyle habits, and appropriate protection
Cancer screening is not merely a medical procedure — it is a proactive decision for the future. By understanding available programmes, eligibility criteria, and costs, individuals can take meaningful steps to safeguard their own health and that of their families.
Real Claims Case Sharing*: When Cancer Strikes, Protection Makes a Real Difference
Cancer not only affects physical health but may also create sudden financial and emotional strain for patients and their families. Our customer, Ms Mak, aged 38, was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to undergo intensive treatment and hospitalisation. During her stay, she also contracted COVID‑19, adding further physical and emotional stress, alongside concerns over medical and living expenses.
At this critical juncture, the financial consultant promptly communicated her situation to the claims team. Claims specialists provided flexible and supportive assistance, expediting both critical illness and hospitalisation claims. A critical illness payout of HKD 566,000 was approved within four working days, while hospitalisation benefits of HKD 31,000 were settled within three working days, enabling her to address urgent financial needs and focus on recovery.
This case clearly illustrates that when critical illness insurance works hand in hand with medical protection, its role in disease management goes far beyond financial support. In the most challenging moments, it provides consistent and reliable assistance, genuinely accompanying clients through some of the most important milestones in life.
Cancer screening represents the first step in disease prevention. When paired with regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and suitable health insurance arrangements, you can face the future with greater confidence and resilience—whatever health challenges may arise.
