Since January 1, 2025, eligibility for free cancer screening has been expanded, leading to a significant increase in screening services. As of December 17, the cumulative number of screenings has exceeded 5.366 million, an increase of more than 24.8% compared with the same period last year. This year, approximately 59,000 cases of precancerous lesions and 12,000 cancer cases have been identified, helping around 71,000 people detect abnormalities early, an increase of about 13,000 people compared with last year. The Health Promotion Administration encourages eligible individuals to take advantage of free cancer screening as an important line of defense for protecting health.
Cancer has been the leading cause of death among the top ten causes of death in Taiwan for 43 consecutive years. In response to President Lai’s “Healthy Taiwan” policy and the goal of reducing the standardized cancer mortality rate by one-third by 2030, the Health Promotion Administration expanded free screening services for cervical cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer starting in 2025. The scope of eligible recipients was broadened, and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing was added to enable early detection and early treatment.
Following the implementation of the policy, screening volumes reached a historical high. As of December 17, 2025, cumulative cancer screening services totaled 5.366 million, an increase of 1.068 million compared with 4.298 million during the same period last year. The Health Promotion Administration calls on eligible individuals to make full use of the government-provided free screening services and encourages those newly included since 2025 to participate. Regular screening and early detection provide greater health protection.
As cancer screening volumes increase, ensuring proper follow-up of abnormal cases is particularly important. Statistics show that in 2025, approximately 59,000 cases of precancerous lesions and 12,000 cancer cases were detected, helping about 71,000 people identify abnormalities early. This represents an increase of about 13,000 cases, or approximately 23.3%, compared with the same period last year. Individuals who receive abnormal screening results are urged to promptly complete follow-up examinations at medical institutions.
The Health Promotion Administration stated that early-stage cancer often shows no obvious symptoms, and regular cancer screening allows for early detection and early treatment. Eligible individuals are encouraged to use the free cancer screening services provided by the government and to seek medical confirmation promptly if abnormal results are received, working together to protect public health.
