More than 1500 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed annually in Lithuania. This disease is more commonly detected at an older age, so regular preventive check-ups are especially important for people aged 50–74, according to a press release.
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In 2025 alone, 8078 tests were performed at the polyclinic under the colorectal cancer prevention program, and 1438 patients who received a positive result for occult blood in stool were referred for further examination.
“Prevention starts with knowledge, but information alone is not always enough. Therefore, we aim to make it as easy as possible for people to talk to a specialist, ask questions, and find out what actions they can take for their health today. Going out into the community allows people to talk about health in a familiar, everyday environment and reminds them that taking care of themselves can start with a simple step,” says polyclinic director Mindaugas Sinkevičius.
Prevention begins where people are
The meeting attracted great interest from residents – specialists provided several dozen consultations on colorectal cancer prevention, healthy lifestyle, and nutrition topics.
Several hundred free test containers were also distributed to residents. Patients who bring them to the polyclinic laboratory will be able to learn the test results in the usual manner.
“Colorectal cancer in early stages usually causes no symptoms – the person feels well and thinks there is no reason to see a doctor. That is why preventive testing is so important: it allows changes to be noticed even when the disease does not manifest itself. The earlier it is detected, the greater the chance of complete cure, so I urge not to delay the test. And for those who do not fall within the program’s age range but have close relatives who have had this disease or worrying symptoms, I advise discussing the possibility of testing with their family doctor,” says the head of the Therapeutic Day Hospital Services Department at the polyclinic, internist Vilius Mačiūnas.
Health care was not limited to disease prevention alone. A lifestyle medicine specialist also communicated with community members, with whom it was possible to discuss daily habits, physical activity, nutrition, and other health-influencing choices.
During the meeting, the polyclinic community could get closer acquainted with the health assessment and diagnostic tools used at the institution.
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A vein finder was demonstrated, helping healthcare professionals to better visualize superficial veins. Visitors also tried puzzles, speed and memory boards, and a strength measuring device – a dynamometer.
Practical activities allowed not only to try these tools but also to better understand how different instruments can be used to assess a person’s health and functional abilities.
“We want people not only to hear about health care but also to see how it looks in practice. Such meetings provide an opportunity to get closer acquainted with our specialists, their daily work, and the tools used to assess patients’ health. At the same time, it is
an opportunity to pay attention to your health and think about what we can do for it right now,” says V. Mačiūnas.
Preventive program – an opportunity to take care of your health on time
The colorectal cancer prevention program is intended for people aged 50–74. Under the program, preventive testing is performed every two years. If a positive test result is received, the family doctor issues a referral for additional tests.
The polyclinic urges residents participating in the program not to delay the test and to take advantage of the opportunity to get a free check-up. Through the meeting, the polyclinic aimed not only to draw attention to colorectal cancer prevention but also to encourage the community to take a more active role in caring for their health and to use available preventive health care services.
