Background: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the high prevalence of breast cancer mortality in the least developed countries is due to the diagnosis at late phases. Accordingly, cost-effective breast cancer screening plans are the most effective methods to control this cancer and increase women’s survival.
Methods: This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the breast cancer screening program based on the guidelines of the Iran Ministry of Health on 14,493 eligible women in rural areas of Rudsar city in 2018-19. We calculated performance indicators such as target coverage, identification of the at-risk population, early diagnosis, referral index, and other statistical using SPSS 22 software.
Results: Out of 14493 rural women aged 30-59 referred to health homes, 6992 women underwent breast cancer screening. Coverage of the program in the The target population coverage was estimated at 48%. Most high-risk cases were 46 years and older, and the lowest rate was in women of <35 years. We found Thethat results showed that 0.4% of the cases patients (n=27) were identified as the high-risk, and all (100%) referred to group according to the national guidelines with referral to a specialist for further evaluation. of 100%. All patients cases identified as high-risk groups atin the first phase of screening were found with BIRADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) 4 and 5 based on biopsy specimens.
Conclusion: The low target population coverage and the cases with advanced breast cancer indicated the need for more attention and consideration in implementing programs and policies for preventable cancer by all organizations. In this regard, there is a need for relevant interventions and follow-up by health authorities.
Breast cancer screening in high risk women