A total 235 breast cancers have been detected by screening at a stage where no symptoms were present, Health Parliamentary Secretary Chris Fearne said today during a visit to the National Screening Centre.

He said that 22 colon cancers were successfully identified and treated and 200 cases of polyps were found thanks to the programme.

While acknowledging that more than 10,000 men and women accepted the colon screening invitation, Mr Fearne encouraged more participation.

He said colon cancer was one of the most common forms of cancer in Malta but it could be treated successfully if detected in its early stages.

Mr Fearne said the government was looking into introducing more screening services such as cervical, in a bid to provide a more personalised surveillance health care.