Twelve cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed following the launch of a nationwide screening programme a year ago, Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia announced yesterday.
To date 7,700 invitations were sent to people aged between 60 and 64 but the response was rather disappointing with only 44 per cent carrying out the test, he said.
Addressing the media after a visit to the screening centre in Lascaris Wharf, Valletta, Dr Farrugia said more staff would be recruited next year to expand the service.