The opening event took place this morning in the presence of Hubert Schumacher, President of the Obwalden Cantonal Council, Eva Morger, Cantonal Councillor and primary signatory of the motion to introduce a mammography screening program, Karin Mayer, health promotion and prevention specialist for the canton of Obwalden, as well as other representatives from politics, healthcare, and business.
Breast Cancer in Switzerland – Early detection saves lives
Approximately 6,800 women and 60 men are newly diagnosed with breast cancer each year. If the disease is detected early, the chances for a cure are high, treatments are less invasive, and those affected return to their daily lives faster. Mammography is the most important examination for early detection: it can show changes in breast tissue before a tumor becomes palpable or causes symptoms. Scientific studies show that participating in organized mammography screening programs saves lives.
Susanne Thost, CEO of PINK CUBE, explains: 'With the PINK CUBE, we bring awareness and breast cancer screening directly to the people. Our goal is for every woman in Switzerland to be well informed and to have equal access to quality-assured early detection, regardless of her canton of residence.'
However, access to organized mammography screening programs is regulated differently in each canton. While sixteen cantons offer systematic, franchise-free mammography screening programs, ten cantons still lack such an offer.
Obwalden considers a mammography screening program
The Canton of Obwalden is among the cantons without an organized mammography screening program. The motion submitted by Cantonal Councillor Eva Morger and other signatories to introduce a systematic mammography screening was turned into a postulate by the Cantonal Council on March 26, 2026. The government was thus tasked with examining the introduction of a mammography screening program. Unlike a motion, a postulate does not obligate the government to implement a program. Whether and when women in the Canton of Obwalden can benefit from an organized, franchise-free mammography screening program is thus still uncertain.
At the same time, significant progress is being made in Central Switzerland: Lucerne will introduce a mammography screening program in 2026. The introduction of a program is planned in the cantons of Schwyz, Uri, and Zug. In the Canton of Nidwalden, a motion for the introduction of a mammography screening program is pending. The government council recommends approving it in a modified form and waiving the obligation to introduce a mammography screening program. A parliamentary decision is expected in the autumn.
The Mammography Screening Program
Women between the ages of 50 and 70 receive an invitation to a mammography every two years. The examination is conducted according to clearly defined quality standards, which include independent assessments of the images by two radiologists. Participation is voluntary and costs are covered by basic insurance without being counted towards the franchise. Participants only pay the statutory co-payment of ten percent (maximum 20 francs).
The PINK CUBE is open today in Sarnen until 5 p.m. for the public
In the brightly pink, mobile consultation room, visitors receive free consultations and examinations by a medical team from the Obwalden Cantonal Hospital. In front of the PINK CUBE, they receive information about breast cancer, risk factors, and early detection, including how a mammography is conducted and when it is recommended. A breast model allows one to feel what a lump feels like. The visit is free of charge. An appointment is not necessary.
For more information: www.pinkcube-testyourbreast.ch
About the Patrons
EUROPA DONNA Switzerland is an organization of women with breast cancer, supported by doctors and politicians. They work through networking and advocacy for the recognition and legal implementation of quality assurance in breast cancer care. EUROPA DONNA Switzerland is a member of the European Breast Cancer Coalition.
For more information: www.europadonnaschweiz.ch
The Cancer League advises, supports, and informs people with cancer and their relatives. It is dedicated to prevention and early detection of cancer and promotes independent cancer research. As a national association, it consists of 18 cantonal and regional cancer leagues as well as the umbrella organization, the Swiss Cancer League. It is primarily funded by donations.
For more information: www.krebsliga.ch
Media Contact:
Susanne Thost
CEO PINK CUBE
sthost@pinkcube-testyourbreast.ch
Tel. +41 79 356 23 84