EUCanScreen project: Latvian partners meet to discuss unified approach to implementing cancer screening programme

Photo: Courtesy of the EUCanScreen project

On February 13, a significant meeting took place at the House of Science at the University of Latvia (LU), bringing together the Latvian partners of the project European Joint Action on Cancer Screening (EUCanScreen). The meeting was organised by the LU Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine. Representatives from the Center for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC), the Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Institute of Public Health, the Ministry of Health, Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital (PSKUS), and the gastroenterology centre Gastro participated in the event.

This partner meeting was an important step in the implementation of the EUCanScreen project in Latvia. Participants assessed the progress made so far, exchanged experiences gained during its implementation, discussed challenges, and agreed on the next steps that need to be taken.

The project’s scientific lead from RSU, Assoc. Prof. Lauma Spriņģe, emphasised the importance of improving healthcare professionals' education and competencies. She also informed attendees that a colposcopy training program and necessary training materials are being developed. Additionally, active work is being carried out to compile and evaluate screening informational materials using a standardised and evidence-based health information assessment tool—MAPPinfo (Mapping the Quality of Health Information).

In the near future, RSU will engage in tasks related to risk-based screening approaches and the possibilities of ensuring cervical cancer screening for gender minorities. The project team consists of public health specialists, researchers, and physicians, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach.

The European Joint Action on Cancer Screening (EUCanScreen) project is led by the LU KPMI within the European Union’s EU4Health Programme 2021–2027.