Cancer screening

-Automatic translation-

General on screening; Pros and cons

Cancer screening is an organized examination of a group of asymptomatic individuals.

In Iceland, screening for cervical and breast cancer is carried out nationwide. By detecting cancer at an early/pre-stage, it is possible to lower the incidence of the disease being screened for and/or improve survival. For the screening program's results, the screening group's regular participation is necessary.

These particular cancers are screened for because they are common and how many deaths they can cause each year if nothing is done. Screening does not rule out disease and can never detect all cancers or their precursors.

Benefits of cancer screening

• Early/pre-stage diagnosis of the disease increases the likelihood of a cure and reduces the number of deaths.

• Better chance of requiring less treatment if diagnosed early.

• Peace of mind.

Screening limitations and disadvantages

• Screening can give a false negative answer (not detecting a disease present), thereby giving false confidence.

• Screening can give a false positive answer (diagnosing cancer when it is not a cancer) leading to overdiagnosis, overtreatment with possible side effects, strain on the health system, and increased costs.

• Worry and anxiety while waiting for the results.