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Radiologist training may affect accuracy of mammogram interpretation

A study found that recent radiologists interpreted screening mammograms more accurately than those with less training, while facilities with higher diagnostic volume showed improved accuracy. The researchers suggest additional studies to clarify the complex relationship between radiologist experience and mammogram interpretation.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 18, 2003

Misclassification of death may influence perceived value of cancer screening

A study found that two forms of bias in cause-of-death classification affect the results of randomized trials on cancer screening. Sticky-diagnosis bias biases against screening, while slippery-linkage bias biases in favor of screening. The authors suggest using all-cause mortality to accurately assess the value of screening.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 5, 2002

New method for anticancer drug discovery developed

Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have developed a new cell-based approach for anticancer drug discovery, which identified 39 new compounds selective for yeast cells with faulty DNA repair enzymes. This approach is adaptable to high-throughput screening methods and complements target-based screening, potentially...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 15, 2002

Patients left out of decision loop on cancer screening

A study found that nearly one-third of primary care physicians do not discuss cancer screenings with their patients, citing lack of time and language barriers. The survey also revealed that many doctors would make decisions independently of patient preference, and some were less likely to discuss controversial tests like PSA measurements.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 31, 2001

Mammography no more sensitive in women with family history of breast cancer, says UCSF/SFVAMC study

A new study by UCSF/SFVAMC researchers found that mammography is equally effective in detecting breast cancer in women with and without a family history. The study analyzed data from over 389,000 women and showed that mammography detects nearly 85% of cancers in women aged 50-69, regardless of family history.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 3, 2000

Mammography programs show benefit

Randomized trials demonstrate the effectiveness of mammography programs in reducing breast cancer mortality. The studies showed that recall rates after first and subsequent screens were 9.5% and 4.6%, respectively. Additionally, organized breast cancer screening programs can provide more comprehensive monitoring for at-risk populations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 30, 2000

Physician encouragement, patient awareness of risk can affect women's participation in colorectal cancer screening

A study found that physician encouragement and accurate information about colorectal cancer risks increased women's willingness to undergo screening. Women who were urged by their physicians to be screened had a substantially higher rate of recent screening, with 64% participating in the previous two years.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 27, 2000

Study challenges mammogram effectiveness in breast screening

A study found that breast cancer mortality was almost identical in two groups of women aged 50-59, one receiving annual mammograms and the other physical examinations alone. Effective and regular breast physical examinations with breast self-examination may be an alternative to annual mammograms for this age group.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 18, 2000

Study finds women screened for cervical cancer one, two and three years after normal test results have same low rate of abnormalities

A US study found that women with recent normal Pap smear results have a similar low rate of significant cellular abnormalities regardless of the time interval between screenings. The study suggests that some women may not need to be screened annually, and that less frequent screening may be safe for low-risk women.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 30, 2000

Tip Sheet May 2, 2000

New antidepressant guidelines suggest both older and newer medications are effective in treating depression. A population-based study found that overweight women are less likely to receive screening for cervical and breast cancer, despite higher mortality rates from these cancers.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 1, 2000

Health of women prisoners

A study found that only 15% of women in prison had undergone cervical cancer screening, despite 75% being willing to receive it. Short stays and urgent medical needs contribute to this disparity. Improved medical care could reduce the burden of ill health later on.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 6, 2000