Breast Cancer Mortality and Mammography Screening in Sweden
Author Information
Author(s): Jari Haukka, Graham Byrnes, Mathieu Boniol, Philippe Autier
Primary Institution: Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki
Hypothesis
What is the impact of mammography screening on breast cancer mortality in Swedish women?
Conclusion
The introduction of mammography screening in nine Swedish counties was associated with a 16% reduction in breast cancer mortality for women aged 40 to 69.
Supporting Evidence
- Breast cancer mortality decreased by 16% in women aged 40 to 69 after screening.
- The study used data from the NordCan database covering mortality statistics from 1974 to 2003.
- The results suggest lower benefits from screening than previously estimated.
Takeaway
This study found that women in Sweden who got screened for breast cancer had fewer deaths from the disease compared to those who didn't get screened.
Methodology
The study used mortality data from the NordCan database and applied Poisson regression to model breast cancer mortality.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of bias due to contamination from breast cancer diagnosed prior to screening.
Limitations
The study could not completely separate the effects of screening from those of improved treatment and health service organization.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 40 to 79 in nine Swedish counties.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 9 to 22%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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