Problems in the implementation of the national programme of organized screening of malignant diseases

Abstract

Screening is the systematic application of tests in people who were not seeking medical attention in order to identify individuals at risk of a specific disorder that is large enough to justify further investigation and preventive action. The first organized national screening programs are associated with psychiatric disorders and diabetes. Great global burden of malignant diseases has led questions of their primary and secondary prevention in focus. In Serbia, the national cancer screening programs included 17 health centers for cervical cancer, 35 for breast cancer and 30 for colorectal cancer. The response rate was 27,57% for target population (cervical cancer), 8,41% for breast cancer and 6,16% for colorectal cancer. Poor organization, the imperfection of individual screening methods, insufficient awareness about disease and screening programs low educational and socioeconomic level, insufficient involvement of general practitioners, cultural and religious attitudes are all the cause of the low response rates in Serbia, and they represent a global problem. Better organization and motivation of primary health care with adequate political support (resources and financing) may increase the coverage of screening programs. Education and motivation of the population should be used in breaking prejudices and stereotypes toward screening programs.