Comparison of 1- and 2-year screening intervals for women undergoing screening mammography
2005

Comparison of 1- and 2-year screening intervals for women undergoing screening mammography

Sample size: 5844 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wai E S, D'yachkova Y, Olivotto I A, Tyldesley S, Phillips N, Warren L J, Coldman A J

Primary Institution: BC Cancer Agency

Hypothesis

What is the long-term impact of 1- and 2-year screening mammography intervals on breast cancer survival?

Conclusion

Annual screening mammography is associated with a slightly higher breast cancer survival rate compared to biennial screening.

Supporting Evidence

  • Annual screening was associated with a 1.2% increase in estimated 10-year breast cancer-specific survival.
  • Survival rates for women undergoing annual screening were 95.2% at 5 years and 90.4% at 10 years.
  • Biennial screening resulted in survival rates of 94.6% at 5 years and 89.2% at 10 years.
  • The likelihood of screen-detected cancer was higher with annual screening compared to biennial screening.

Takeaway

Women who get their mammograms every year have a tiny bit better chance of surviving breast cancer than those who get them every two years.

Methodology

This retrospective study compared survival outcomes for women aged 50–74 screened annually versus biennially using data from the Screening Mammography Program of British Columbia.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the non-compliance of some women with the recommended screening intervals.

Limitations

The study may be affected by improvements in imaging technology and incomplete adherence to screening recommendations.

Participant Demographics

Women aged 50–74 years in British Columbia.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.095

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6602393

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