Determinants of the number of mammography units in 31 countries with significant mammography screening
2008

Mammography Units in 31 Countries

Sample size: 31 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ph Autier, D Ait Ouakrim

Primary Institution: International Agency for Research on Cancer

Hypothesis

What factors determine the number of mammography units in countries with significant mammography screening?

Conclusion

There is considerable variation in the density of mammography units across countries, often exceeding local screening recommendations.

Supporting Evidence

  • Countries with more radiologists tend to have more mammography units.
  • Some countries have a high number of mammography units compared to the number of women needing screening.
  • High density of mammography units may lead to unnecessary screenings.

Takeaway

This study looked at how many mammography machines are in different countries and found that some have way more than they actually need.

Methodology

Data on mammography units and radiologists were collected from institutions in 34 countries through direct contact and literature review.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in data collection due to reliance on self-reported information from institutions.

Limitations

Data on the number of mammography units were not available for three countries, and data on radiologists were missing for seven countries.

Participant Demographics

Data were collected from 31 countries across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.0023

Statistical Significance

p=0.0023

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6604657

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