Basilicata excels while Molise lags in Italy's cancer screening rates

The Gimbe Foundation’s 2024 analysis of regional cancer screening, based on data from the National Screening Observatory, highlights sharp contrasts within Italy. Basilicata recorded the highest New System of Guarantee (NSG) scores among southern regions – 56 % for mammography, 52.2 % for cervical screening and 32.9 % for colorectal screening – all above the national averages of 50 %, 51 % and 33.3 % respectively. Regional officials called Basilicata “a virtuous region, the only southern region to report data above the national average.”

In contrast, Molise placed in the lower tier of the national ranking. Its mammography adherence was 42.7 % (national 50 %, 15th place), cervical screening 37.9 % (national 51 %, 15th place) and colorectal screening 23.4 % (national 33.3 %, 17th place). The report notes that all Mezzogiorno regions fall below the national participation average, underscoring the need for stronger prevention and awareness efforts.