Evaluating the strength of potential misplaced priorities in opportunistic cancer screening practice in Greece

Autor: V, Karampoiki, P, Alevizaki, V, Lakiotis, E, Loukidou, A, Terzoudi, A, Gkinosati, C, Panou, A, Ioakeimidou, K, Kamposioras, A, Valachis, L, Tsali, E, Pantazi, G, Koukourakis, I, Karathanasi, E, Thanopoulou, D, Mauri
Rok vydání: 2010
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of B.U.ON. : official journal of the Balkan Union of Oncology. 15(1)
ISSN: 1107-0625
Popis: Screening is a significant method for cancer control, nevertheless the implementation of non cost-effective screening tests at national level may constitute a major burden to health economics. The purpose of this study was to determine the cancer screening activities of a large sample of the Hellenic population, in a country with opportunistic screening practice.A large survey on cancer screening in Greece was organized and conducted by the Panhellenic Association for Continual Medical Research (PACMeR). Screening performance of evidence-based (EB), non-evidence-based (non EB) and of undefined benefit tests was analysed.7001 individuals were analysed. Eighty-eight percent of males and 93% of females stated that they were interested in cancer screening practices. Gynecological cancer screening was performed in the range of 23-38%. Colorectal cancer screening was rarely performed in both genders (1- 2%), while non-evidence-based tests were regularly performed (urinalysis 50% and chest radiography 15-18%). Full blood count and PSA measurement were widely accepted (over 45% in both genders and 19.5% in males, respectively). Sociodemographic characteristics did not influence the performance of EB tests in males while females' activities were highly influenced by such parameters.Opportunistic cancer screening in a primary health care system where national guidelines are missing may cause ambiguous results. Reconsideration of health policy in such cases is mandatory.
Databáze: OpenAIRE