Brenda J van Stigt, Ellen M G Olthof, Inge M C M de Kok, Eveline A M Heijnsdijk, Iris Lansdorp-Vogelaar, Nicolien T van Ravesteyn, Esther Toes-Zoutendijk
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objective: Population-based screening programs for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer have been proven effective in detecting cancer at an early or precancerous stage, thereby enabling better patient outcomes. For screening programs to remain effective at a population level, high participation rates are essential.
Methods: Data on participation in the three nationwide screening programs in the Netherlands from 2018 to 2022 were obtained from the national screening information system (ScreenIT). Participation rates were calculated to assess trends over time, stratified by invitation round (first vs. subsequent) and sex (for colorectal cancer only).
Results: Participation was consistently lower for the first invitation rounds and men compared to subsequent rounds and women. Decreasing participation rates were observed for all programs and subgroups. In five years' time, overall participation decreased from 76.9 % to 70.7 % for breast cancer (-8.0 %), 55.5 % to 48.6 % for cervical cancer (-12.4 %), and 73.0 % to 68.4 % for colorectal cancer (-6.2 %).
Conclusion: While some logistical factors may have contributed to decreasing participation rates, the consistent decline observed across all three nationwide screening programs remains unclarified. Our results emphasize that continuous monitoring of screening programs is crucial, and accessibility of cancer screening should be prioritized.
期刊介绍:
Founded in 1972 by Ernst Wynder, Preventive Medicine is an international scholarly journal that provides prompt publication of original articles on the science and practice of disease prevention, health promotion, and public health policymaking. Preventive Medicine aims to reward innovation. It will favor insightful observational studies, thoughtful explorations of health data, unsuspected new angles for existing hypotheses, robust randomized controlled trials, and impartial systematic reviews. Preventive Medicine''s ultimate goal is to publish research that will have an impact on the work of practitioners of disease prevention and health promotion, as well as of related disciplines.