Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
19:15
Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Incidence of neuroblastoma after a screening program
Stéphane Barrette1, Mark L Bernstein, Leslie L Robison
1Hôpital Ste-Justine, Montréal; Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Quebec, Canada. stephane.barrette@umontreal.ca
Summary
Neuroblastoma incidence increased during a screening program and remained elevated post-screening due to heightened awareness. This diagnostic effect was temporary, with rates returning to normal levels in later years.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Cancer Screening
Background:
- A previous study observed a significant increase in neuroblastoma incidence during a 5-year urinary screening program.
- This study investigates if the elevated incidence persisted after the screening program concluded.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the post-screening incidence of neuroblastoma.
- To assess if the incidence remained elevated in the subsequent birth cohort.
Main Methods:
- Reviewed institutional records of neuroblastoma patients born between 1994-1999 in Quebec.
- Compared incidence rates with control populations in Minnesota and Ontario from 1994-2002.
Main Results:
- The overall incidence of newly diagnosed neuroblastoma was higher in Quebec compared to control regions (SIR 1.34).
- However, incidence rates declined to control levels in the 4th and 5th years of the study period.
Conclusions:
- Implementing a neuroblastoma screening program increased diagnostic awareness and elevated diagnosis rates.
- This 'halo effect' on diagnosis was transient, with rates normalizing over time.
