Randomised controlled trial of mammographic screening in women from age 40: results of screening in the first 10 years
2005

Mammogram Screening for Women Aged 40-41

Sample size: 160921 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sue Moss, I Thomas, A Evans, B Thomas, L Johns

Primary Institution: Cancer Screening Evaluation Unit, Institute of Cancer Research

Hypothesis

Does annual mammographic screening from age 40 reduce breast cancer mortality compared to screening starting at age 50?

Conclusion

The trial suggests that annual mammographic screening starting at age 40 may have benefits, but the effectiveness remains uncertain.

Supporting Evidence

  • 160,921 women were randomized in the trial.
  • Uptake of screening invitations was between 68% and 70%.
  • Invasive cancer detection rates were 0.09% at the first screen.
  • Mortality analysis will be conducted once data ascertainment is complete.

Takeaway

This study looked at whether women aged 40 could benefit from regular mammograms. It found that while many women got screened, it's still unclear if it really helps them live longer.

Methodology

The study randomized 160,921 women aged 40-41 to receive annual mammograms or no intervention, tracking outcomes over 10 years.

Potential Biases

Potential contamination from private screening in the control group could bias results.

Limitations

Some centers ceased screening early due to resource constraints, which may affect the results.

Participant Demographics

Women aged 40-41, with a total of 160,921 participants randomized.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Confidence Interval

95% CI 0.63, 1.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6602396

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