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Welcome to PinkRibbon Poland

You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in Poland, survival stats, health initiatives, and trusted support organisations. Our mission is to ensure every woman has access to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.

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Cancer statistics
& survival rates

Breast Cancer
22.9% of female cancers in Poland.
ASIR: 95 per 100,000.
ASMR: 18.3 per 100,000.
5-year survival ~79% (2010–2015 data).
Cervical Cancer
ASIR: 8.8 per 100,000.
ASMR: 5.2 per 100,000.
5-year survival ~57%.
Ovarian Cancer
ASIR: 10.3 per 100,000.
ASMR: 7.0 per 100,000.
5-year survival ~41%.
Endometrial (Corpus Uteri) Cancer
ASIR: 12.2 per 100,000.
ASMR: 3.8 per 100,000.
5-year survival ~77%.

### Systemic Challenges

Low Screening Participation: Despite availability, participation rates remain low, limiting early detection.
Regional Disparities: Access to high-quality oncology care varies, with rural areas often underserved.
Lifestyle Factors: High rates of obesity and smoking increase cancer risk, requiring targeted public health interventions.
Rising Endometrial Cancer Mortality: Highlights the need for better awareness and early detection.

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Recent research
& Initiatives

  • Recent Research

    National Oncology Strategy 2020–2030: Aims to improve cancer prevention, early detection, treatment outcomes, and patient support nationwide.
    Expanded HPV Vaccination and Screening: Focuses on increasing vaccination coverage and introducing HPV-based cervical screening to reduce cervical cancer incidence.
    Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology: Poland’s leading cancer research and treatment center, advancing oncology care and research innovations.

    Learn more

Support organizations

  • Support Organisations

    Rak’n’Roll Foundation: Provides psychological support, rehabilitation, and advocacy for cancer patients to improve quality of life during and after treatment. raknroll.pl
    OnkoCafe – Together Better Foundation: Raises awareness and provides support for endometrial cancer patients through education and community initiatives. onkocafe.pl
    Polish Cancer Patient Coalition (PKOPO): A network of patient organizations advocating for rights and improved oncology care standards. pkopo.pl
    All.Can Poland: Brings together stakeholders to optimize cancer care efficiency and patient outcomes through policy improvements. all-can.org

Accessing cancer screening and treatment

Where to get screened

These services are part of the national screening program “Prolamvano” (meaning “I Prevent”)

Learn more

  • **Where to Get Screened**

    Poland has national screening programs for:
    Breast Cancer: Women aged 50–69 invited for free mammograms every two years under the National Breast Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP).
    Cervical Cancer: Women aged 25–64 offered Pap smears every three years.
    Colorectal Cancer: Adults aged 50–65 can access colonoscopy screenings every 10 years.

    **Appointment Needed?
    Yes. Invitations are sent with instructions on scheduling.**

    **What to Bring:**

    National ID (e.g., PESEL number)
    Health insurance card (if applicable)
    Invitation letter (if received)

    **Hotline Numbers:**

    Contact your local health center or the National Health Fund (NFZ) for details.

    Learn more
Support is nearby

Hotline numbers

Local Health Centres and NFZ Offices: Contact for screening program information and treatment referrals.

Where to get treatment

  • Where to Go

    Public Hospitals: Most have oncology departments offering multidisciplinary care.

    **Specialised Cancer Centres:**

    Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology (Warsaw and other branches).

    **Government Coverage:**

    Poland’s public healthcare system covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and palliative care.
    Patients may pay co-payments based on income and exemption status.

    **Note:
    Waiting times can occur. Patients should discuss timelines and treatment plans with their providers.**

Financial support

  •

    **Government Schemes:**

    Healthcare coverage includes most cancer treatments.
    “Hardship exemption” system caps annual out-of-pocket expenses based on income.

    **Additional Support:**

    Patients can apply for help through health insurance providers or hospital social services.
    Patients are encouraged to consult with hospital social workers or insurers for personalized advice.

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