The AOK is alarmed because of the falling number of colon cancer surgeries. Between January and May of this year there were 20 percent fewer operations than in the same period of 2019 - before Corona. The Federal Association of General Local Health Insurance Funds (AOK) announced that this was the highest decline of all previous pandemic waves.

"It is to be feared that these slumps also have something to do with the decline in early detection tests during the pandemic," said AOK CEO Carola Reimann. She appealed to the insured to take advantage of early detection examinations. The early detection of colon cancer, prostate cancer or cervical cancer can prevent serious diseases and save lives. "Especially now it is important to make an appointment with your doctor and, if necessary, to make up for missed examinations."