TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Research Foundation collaborated with 7-Eleven to hold a free liver screening event on Sunday at Kaohsiung’s Dashe District Office.
The foundation said the event attracted more than 1,000 participants. On-site offerings included liver-related blood tests, abdominal ultrasounds, breast X-rays, Pap smears, fecal occult blood tests, and oral health screenings, per CNA.
Individuals undergoing abdominal ultrasound exams will have their results explained by nursing staff onsite, the foundation said. If a referral is necessary, the agency will assist in coordinating with the district’s health center.
Abdominal ultrasounds are the best diagnostic tool for detecting liver cancer and identifying diseases in other organs, including the gallbladder, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen, the foundation said. It also noted that individuals with hepatitis B or C should undergo an abdominal ultrasound every six months to a year, while those with liver cirrhosis are advised to have the test every three to six months.
The foundation said the screening campaign has served over 20,000 individuals over the years. It added that the public can scan a QR code on promotional posters at 7-Eleven stores to register and learn more.
The foundation added that it will also partner with health centers across Taiwan this year to promote screening and abdominal ultrasound activities at 7-Eleven stores. For individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, it will provide subsidies for items not covered by the National Health Insurance.
According to the National Health Insurance Administration, the number of new liver cancer cases in Taiwan in 2023 was 9,488, with 7,724 deaths from the disease. The agency noted that the incidence of liver cancer increases with age, and men are approximately twice as likely to develop it compared to women.
The administration reported an estimated 320,000 hepatitis C patients nationwide. It added that with the government's goal to eliminate hepatitis C this year, over 80% of patients have received treatment.
