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Welcome to PinkRibbon Taiwan

You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in Taiwan, 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
ASIR rose from ~60 to ~128 per 100,000 (1997–2016); projected ~151 by 2031.
5-year survival: >90% early-stage, ~28% late-stage.
Cervical Cancer
ASIR: 7.67 per 100,000 (2019).
5-year survival: ~70%.
Ovarian Cancer
ASIR: 9.86 per 100,000 (2019).
5-year survival varies: ~70% for younger patients, ~30% for older.
Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer
ASIR: 17.00 per 100,000 (2019).
5-year survival: ~83% for endometrioid adenocarcinoma; lower for other types.

### Systemic Challenges

Healthcare Disparities: Immigrant women, especially from Southeast Asia, face barriers to screening due to language and cultural factors.
Occupational Risks: Higher cancer risks among healthcare workers linked to shift work and exposures.
Psychosocial Support: Significant psychological distress among women with breast cancer underscores the need for mental health services.
Funding for Innovation: Government proposes a Cancer Drug Fund to improve access to innovative therapies.

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Learn more

Recent research
& Initiatives

  • Recent Research

    Breast Cancer Trends: Incidence has doubled over two decades, projected to plateau around 151 per 100,000 by 2031. Early detection improves outcomes dramatically.
    Occupational Risks: Female healthcare workers show elevated breast and uterine cancer risks, potentially linked to shift work and exposures.
    Ovarian Cancer Studies: Real-world analyses in Taiwan provide insight into treatment patterns and clinical practices for newly diagnosed epithelial ovarian cancer.
    Endometrial Cancer Monitoring: Research shows increased risk of second primary malignancies in survivors, emphasizing need for long-term follow-up.

    Learn more

Support organizations

  • Support Organisations

    Taiwan Breast Cancer Alliance (TBCA): Brings together patient support groups to share resources and advocate for patient rights.
    Taiwan Breast Cancer Foundation: Offers education, patient support, and advocacy for breast cancer awareness.
    Hope Foundation for Cancer Care: Provides comprehensive support for patients and families, including financial aid. canceraway.org.tw
    Formosa Cancer Foundation: Focuses on education, early detection, patient counseling, and survivor support across multiple cancer types.

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**

    Taiwan runs extensive national cancer screening programs:
    Breast Cancer: Women aged 45–69 are eligible for free mammograms every two years.
    Cervical Cancer:
    Women aged 25+ receive free Pap smears every three years.
    Women aged 35, 45, and 65 also get a one-time free HPV test.
    Colorectal Cancer: Adults aged 50–74 are recommended to have fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) every two years.
    Oral Cancer: Free biennial screening for adults aged 30+ who chew betel nut or smoke.
    Lung Cancer: High-risk groups (heavy smokers aged 50–74) may qualify for low-dose CT scans via pilot programs.

    **Appointment Needed?
    Yes. Invitations with scheduling details are sent to eligible individuals.**

    **What to Bring:**

    National Health Insurance (NHI) card
    Identification (e.g., National ID or Alien Resident Certificate)
    Invitation letter (if received)

    **Hotline Numbers:**

    Health Promotion Administration (HPA): 0800-031-598
    Taiwan Cancer Foundation: 0809-010-580

    Learn more
Support is nearby

Hotline numbers

0800-031-598
Typical Hours: Monday–Friday, standard business hours (confirm locally).

Where to get treatment

  • Where to Go

    Public Hospitals: Most have oncology departments offering multidisciplinary cancer care.

    **Specialised Cancer Centres:**

    National Taiwan University Hospital
    Taipei Veterans General Hospital

    **Government Coverage:**

    Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, targeted therapies, and palliative care.
    Patients may pay co-payments, with caps and exemptions based on income.

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

Financial support

  •

    **Government Schemes:**

    National Health Insurance covers most treatment costs.
    “Hardship exemption” system caps annual out-of-pocket expenses based on income.

    **Additional Support:**

    Available through health insurance providers and hospital social services.
    NGOs such as Hope Foundation and Formosa Cancer Foundation also offer financial aid.
    Patients are encouraged to consult hospital social workers or insurance staff for personalized advice.

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