The Ministry of Health adopts the national guide for comprehensive preventive examinations
In a strategic move aimed at transforming the concept of healthcare in the Kingdom, the Deputy Minister of Health for Population Health, Dr. Abdullah Asiri, announced the Kingdom's official adoption of the "National Guidelines for Preventive Screenings." This guide, issued by the Public Health Authority (Weqaya), represents the first comprehensive national reference of its kind for all recommended screening and periodic tests for various segments of society, reflecting the healthcare system's commitment to shifting from a treatment-based model to a proactive, preventive one.
The context of health transformation and Vision 2030
The launch of this guide aligns with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program, one of the programs under the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places "prevention" at the forefront of building a vibrant society. Instead of waiting for illness to occur before intervention, this strategy aims to promote public health through the early detection of risk factors, thereby reducing the economic burden on the healthcare system and increasing the average life expectancy of the population in good health.
Early cancer detection programs
Dr. Asiri explained that the guide is based on the latest global scientific evidence, and includes precise programs for the early detection of tumors, including:
- Breast cancer: Mammogram screening for women starting from the age of forty.
- Colon cancer: Undergo a stool immunoassay annually, or a colonoscopy every ten years for both sexes starting at age 45.
- Cervical cancer: A cervical smear for women aged 21 to 65, at a rate of once every 3 to 5 years.
- Lung cancer: Annual low-dose CT scan for smokers (current or former) in the 50-80 age group.
Combating silent chronic diseases
The evidence wasn't limited to tumors; it also established rigorous protocols for managing chronic diseases that often begin without obvious symptoms. Recommendations include:
- Diabetes: Fasting or HbA1c blood sugar test for those over 35 years of age, repeated every three years.
- Heart and lipid health: Examination of cholesterol and lipid levels in the 40-75 age group to assess the risk of arterial disease.
- Blood pressure: Periodic measurement for everyone over 18 years of age once every two years to ensure early control of the “silent killer”.
- Osteoporosis: Bone density testing for women over the age of 60 or 65 based on medical evaluation.
A holistic view: from genetics to mental health
The national guidelines are distinguished by their comprehensiveness, going beyond traditional physical examinations. They focus on preventive behavioral and psychological aspects, including smoking assessment, mental health evaluation, and prevention of home injuries. They also mandate regular monitoring of body mass index (weight and height) at every medical visit to combat obesity.
Regarding personalized medicine and genetics, the guide recommended intensive genetic testing for individuals with a strong family history of diseases, such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer mutations, Lynch syndrome associated with colon cancer, as well as screening for familial hypercholesterolemia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from childhood.
Expected impact locally and regionally
Adherence to this guide is expected to contribute to reducing premature mortality rates from chronic diseases and cancers in the Kingdom, and to improve the quality of life for patients and their families. Dr. Asiri called on all members of society to review the guide on the "Prevention" Authority's website and to adhere to the specified deadlines, emphasizing that community awareness is the first line of defense in ensuring sustainable health for future generations.
