In a recent decision, the South Korean government announced plans to incorporate colonoscopies into the national health screening program for individuals aged 45 to 74 as of 2028. This initiative is part of the "5th Comprehensive Cancer Management Plan" aimed at elevating the early detection rates of six major types of cancers, including colon cancer, to 60% by 2030. Currently, individuals over 50 undergo annual fecal occult blood tests, and if positive, are provided with free colonoscopies. The new policy will allow anyone within the specified age range to receive a colonoscopy regardless of the results of the fecal tests, although the cost-sharing details have yet to be finalized.

One of the driving factors behind this change is the low screening rate for colon cancer, which stands at only 40.3%. This is significantly lower compared to other cancers such as lung cancer, cervical cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer, where screening rates exceed 50%. The government hopes that increasing access to colonoscopies will result in earlier detection of the disease, thus enhancing survival rates. Colorectal cancer is notably one of the leading causes of cancer mortality, with a death rate of 16.1 per 100,000 individuals in 2023.

As part of a broader initiative to improve cancer screening, the Ministry of Health and Welfare is also expanding eligibility for lung cancer screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals aged 54 to 74 with a significant smoking history. Such public health measures are crucial in tackling cancer rates more effectively and reducing overall mortality, ensuring that underprivileged populations, who often only have access to basic fecal testing, can receive necessary procedures with less financial burden.