Check our FAQ’s and book an appointment
Check our FAQ’s and book an appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
We gathered our most frequently asked questions for you. Can’t find the answer to your questions, contact us at our free line 462 33 80 or 0800-18 11.
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Population screening aims at catching mortal diseases in their early stages in order to lower mortality rates. Therefore, research is conducted to assess which age group is most affected by the disease. The aim is to screen only this group to effectively catch the disease where it shows up most.
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Early screening delivers measurable benefits at individual, community, and healthcare-system levels. Early cancer screening at Fundashon Prevenshon significantly benefits the population of Curaçao by detecting breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers at an early stage, when treatment is more effective and survival chances are higher. Screening also prevents cancer, especially cervical and colorectal cancer, by identifying and treating precancerous changes before disease develops. By reducing late‑stage diagnoses, early detection lowers healthcare costs and relieves pressure on Curaçao’s healthcare system. Individuals benefit from less intensive treatment, better quality of life, and reduced physical and emotional burden for families. Population‑based screening improves equity, ensuring access for groups who might otherwise miss preventive care. Overall, these programs strengthen a culture of prevention and contribute to longer, healthier lives across the island.
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At Fundashon Prevenshon, individuals are invited for (cancer) screening according to a clearly defined time scheme based on current scientific literature and international guidelines. This evidence‑based approach determines how often someone should be tested based on age, sex, and previous results, ensuring that screenings are performed at intervals proven to be both safe and effective. By following these scientifically supported schedules, we maximize the chance of detecting breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers at an early or even precancerous stage. This systematic timing helps prevent unnecessary testing while at the same time avoiding late detection of disease. Adhering to evidence‑based screening intervals allows Fundashon Prevenshon to provide high‑quality, reliable prevention care that protects population health and improves long‑term outcomes.
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Fundashon Prevenshon offers organized, population‑based screening programs for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer, focusing on early detection and prevention through evidence‑based methods. Women are invited for breast cancer screening with mammography, cervical cancer screening using HPV testing, and adults are screened for colorectal cancer to detect cancer or precancerous changes at an early stage. All programs follow scientifically established screening intervals to ensure timely detection while avoiding unnecessary testing. In addition to cancer screening, Fundashon Prevenshon has introduced Vita, a new preventive screening program for adults aged 25 to 75 that focuses on the early identification and prevention of non‑communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Together, these programs support a comprehensive approach to prevention, aiming to keep the population healthier, reduce disease burden, and promote long‑term wellbeing in Curaçao.
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To prepare for a screening appointment at Fundashon Prevenshon, individuals are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early and bring a valid form of identification and any relevant medical information, such as previous screening results if available. Clients are advised to inform staff about any symptoms, medications, pregnancy, or recent medical procedures before the examination. Following the provided instructions helps ensure that the screening can be performed accurately and efficiently. By coming well prepared, participants support a smooth appointment process and contribute to the reliability of their screening results. If you have any questions, please contact us via our free line 0800-1811.
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Women aged 45 through 75.
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It can indeed be experienced as uncomfortable. It is important to relax during the examination. During menstruation or during menopause, the examination may be slightly more sensitive due to hormonal imbalance. You can reschedule your appointment if your breasts are temporarily more sensitive.
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Not really. Please inform the radiographer beforehand if you usually experience a lot of pain. She can slightly adjust the pressure while you relax your muscles as much as possible.
You may also choose to take two effective painkillers before the examination. In these ways, the examination can become more tolerable for you with proper guidance.
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Yes. If hormones and/or menstruation make your breasts sensitive, you can reschedule the appointment to a less sensitive period.
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Screening focuses on small changes that are often not palpable. The pressure on the breasts is adjusted to the flexibility of the breast tissue, so damage to the breast tissue does not occur.
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No, this method is not suitable for that purpose. Measuring temperature differences deep inside a large breast has proven unreliable. Tumors located deeper in the tissue may therefore be missed.
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No, not at this time. Measuring temperature differences deep inside a large breast has proven unreliable, which means deeper‑lying tumors may be missed.
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PAM mammography combines laser light and ultrasound to visualize tumors. This painless method seems promising, but there is currently insufficient evidence for its use in breast cancer screening.
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These are currently experimental techniques that are still in the research phase. They are not yet used for population screening.
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No. The screening radiographer is trained to take good images of every breast.
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New techniques have indeed been developed to make breast examinations less painful. However, they are not yet used in the breast cancer screening program because these techniques are still in the research phase.
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Yes. In addition to the implant, breast tissue is still present. Please inform the radiographer in advance that you have breast implants.
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Yes. The compression pressure is adjusted to the flexibility of the implant.
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Yes, you can. Preferably, remove the piercings before the examination. A piercing causes an “artifact” (a large white spot) on the image, which can lead to loss of image information.
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That can indeed be more difficult. However, at FP we use 3D mammography, which improves the detection of abnormalities.
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Screening focuses on small, often non‑palpable changes. The pressure on the breasts is adjusted to their flexibility, so a lump does not rupture.
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Yes. Please inform the radiographer, who will take this into account.
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Four standard images are taken. If necessary for assessment, additional images will be made.
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Yes. At FP, only female screening radiographers work.
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The risk of X‑ray radiation during mammography is very small. The benefits of early detection of breast cancer far outweigh the minimal radiation risk.
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Yes. After each examination, the equipment is cleaned with 70% alcohol.
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Yes. There is a bus stop within walking distance. You can also request the FP bus to pick you up.
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Yes. There is a parking space for people with limited mobility, and the building is wheelchair accessible via the entrance on Pater Euwensweg.
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To ensure that we have the correct person and to prevent mix‑ups of personal data.
To participate in the colorectal cancer screening, no appointment is necessary. Simply visit our location at Rialtostraat 2–4, Molenplein, or any of our laboratory partners, ADC or MLS, to collect a FIT test kit for home use. Once you have completed the test, please return your sample to Fundashon Prevenshon or to any of our partners, ADC or MLS.
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At any branch of ADC or MLS laboratory or at our office in Molenplein 2-4.
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At any branch of ADC or MLS laboratory or at our office in Molenplein 2-4.
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When you pick up the test at one of the locations, you receive the instructions within the test package.
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Negative tests can be repeated after two years. You do not have to wait for our invitation to pick-up your FIT-test kit.
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A family member or friend can also pick up the test by bringing your ID card (sedula) and insurance card and the signed informed consent form at any of the ADC or MLS laboratory or our main location at Molenplein 2-4.
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The test is part of the colorectal cancer screening.
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There is no longer a difference between our FIT test kit and the one at the general practitioner. A FIT-test at your GP however, is not part of the public screening program for colon cancer. Testing at Fundashon Prevenshon ensures structural participation and monitoring in our screening before symptoms appear.
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Please contact your general practitioner. If the general practitioner did not receive the results, then he or she has to contact the laboratory.
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- Women aged 25 through 65
- Women above 65 years who have not had a Pap test for more than 10 years
The FP nurse takes a cervical smear.
The sample is analyzed in the laboratory for the presence of the HPV virus.The result depends on the type of HPV that is found:
- No high‑risk HPV: no further testing is required.
- High‑risk HPV: the smear is tested for abnormal cells or Pap (cytology).
Either the smear is repeated after 6 weeks or after 12 months, or the client is referred for further examination by a gynecologist.
- From 25 through 29 years = smear for the Pap test (cytology)
- From 30 through 65 years = smear for the HPV virus
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The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a virus that can be detected with a cervical smear. The HPV virus can cause cervical cancer. With screening, the risk of developing cervical cancer is very small.
In 2016, the Foundation started cervical cancer screening using the HPV smear. If the result is positive, a Pap test (cytology) is determined from the same sample and follow‑up is required. The FP nurse will inform you about this.
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There are approximately 160 known HPV viruses. 15 to 20 viruses are high risk and can cause cervical cancer. Types 16 and 18 cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers.
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No, hereditary predisposition does not play a role.
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Yes, through skin‑to‑skin contact with another person.
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Yes. The virus can also cause cancer in other locations.
- In women: anus, labia, and vagina
- In men: oral cavity, penis, anus
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Not much. The screening result shows whether you are positive and a carrier of the virus.
You may sometimes see warts near the vulva, but not always.
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80% of sexually active men and women become infected at some point. The human immune system normally clears the virus within 1½ to 2 years. In approximately 4%, the virus persists and may eventually cause cervical cancer. The virus is present around the vagina and penis and is very contagious. During sex, the virus can also come into contact with hands or the mouth.
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- If the virus remains in the body and abnormal cells develop
- Sex at a young age
- Unprotected sex with multiple partners
- Smoking weakens the immune system
- Not participating in screening
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Yes (the child may be infected during childbirth)
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HPV can still be transmitted even when using condoms. While condoms significantly reduce the risk of transmission of many sexually transmitted infections (STIs), they do not provide complete protection against human papillomavirus (HPV) because they do not cover all areas of potential contact. Therefore, it is possible for HPV to be spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by a condom.
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We do not test HPV in men at Fundashon Prevenshon. Your GP can give you more information about this.
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Natural process. The human immune system normally clears the virus within 1½ to 2 years. In approximately 4%, the virus persists and may eventually cause cervical cancer.
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No, this is currently unavailable. There is however a HPV vaccination available for young adolescents.
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Yes, however, this is not part of the public screening of Curacao.
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- Bleeding from the vagina during penetrative sex
- Contact bleeding when inserting a tampon
- Bleeding from the vagina outside the menstrual period
- Bleeding from the vagina after menopause (12 months after your last menstruation)
- Mucus discharge from the vagina (brown or black‑red discharge)
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No. Repeating the test depends on the result.
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Yes, individuals over 65 years old who have never had a cervical smear test are eligible to participate in cervical screening.
If you are 65 or older and have never had a cervical screening, you can request one through your GP or a clinic that provides cervical test.
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80% of sexually active men and women become infected at some point.
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This cannot be prevented. People who smoke or use specific medications, for example due to HIV infection or (kidney) transplantation, have a higher chance of remaining infected longer.
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- If you are sexually active for 3 years.
- At Famia Planiá from 17 years.
- At Fundashon Prevenshon from 24 years and 9 months.
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Yes, it is very likely. Screening on time is therefore of utmost importance to prevent cervical cancer from developing.
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Yes, but be aware that you can transmit the virus to your sexual partner.
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Yes, if your partner is infectious.
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Yes, circumcision does not decrease the chances of transmission of the virus.
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If you were treated for the STI, no.
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- If you or your partner has multiple partners;
- Low immunity;
- “Unsafe” sex.
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Yes. In some cases, the virus can remain present for a very long time.
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No, only after you have had sex.
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Yes, but reinfection is always possible.
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YES, request this via your general practitioner.
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There is no evidence to suggest that getting the HPV vaccine would make it harder to get pregnant in the future. However, HPV vaccination is not an anticonception method. For more information on the vaccination and pregnancy please visit this link. For more information on safe anticonception methods please visit the website to Famia Plania.
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No. We advise you to go to Salú pa Tur at Kas Chikitu or visit their website.
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Screening at a younger age is currently not available. Younger ages can partake school base programs which are already available.
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Yes, you may participate in the screening.
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Yes, you are allowed to participate.
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Participation into the program is possible after approval from our lifestyle physician. Please make an appointment for the screening.
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Vita looks at important health and lifestyle information to understand your risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). You can expect a careful health check, a detailed talk with our doctor, and clear guidance to help you make healthier choices. You may also be invited to join our lifestyle support program.
Our team is made up of skilled and dedicated professionals who are trained to deliver high‑quality screenings. Vita screening is now the fourth screening program offered at Fundashon Prevenshon and meets the same high standards as our other services. Fundashon Prevenshon is the national institution for NCD screening and lifestyle intervention in Curaçao.
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You can participate in the screening starting from 25 years old until 75 years. A valid ID and insurance must be shown at the day of the appointment.
Book an Appointment
Please book your appointment for one of our screening services. If you need assistance or have any question, please contact us at our free line 462 33 80 or 0800-18 11. Our team is ready to assist you.
Did you go through our Screening program? We would love to hear your feedback.
