Attendance of the fourth (2008–2009) screening round of the Hungarian organized, nationwide breast cancer screening program

Abstract

Introduction: Organised, nationwide screening for breast cancer with mammography in the age group between 45 and 65 years with 2 years screening interval started in Hungary in January 2002. Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the attendance rate of nationwide breast screening programme for the 2008–2009 years. Method: The data derive from the database of the National Health Insurance Fund Administration. The ratio of women in the age group 45–65 years was calculated having either a screening mammography or a diagnostic mammography in the 4th screening round of the programme. Results: In the years 2000–2001, 7.6% of the women had an opportunistic screening mammography while in 2008–2009 31.2% of the target population had screening mammography within the organized programme. During the same periods 20.2% (2000–2001) and 20.4% (2008–2009) of women had a diagnostic mammography. Thus the total (screening and diagnostic) coverage of mammography increased from 26.6% (2000–2001) to 50.1% (2008–2009). The attendance rate failed to change between 2002 and 2009. Conclusions: In order to decrease the mortality due to breast cancer, the attendance rate of mammography screening programme should be increased. Orv. Hetil., 154(50), 1975–1983.