Organizational aspects of breast cancer screening in Sarajevo region

To analyze basic parameters of success and organizational aspects of screening for breast cancer implemented in the Sarajevo Canton area during the period 2000- 2006 and, based on the acquired experience, to suggest the most adequate model of screening in order to create a continuing and efficient constituent part of the population healthcare system.

Out of 30,134 women of the target age group 45-55 years, an invitation was delivered to 27,473 of them. 16,085 (53.4%) women were screened. Out of this number 33.6% came after the invitation and the remaining 66.4% were informed of the screening project from other sources, most of them after their doctor's advice.

In 355 (2.2%) examined women mammographic findings were suspicious for malignancy, and out of this number in 187 (1.16%) women cancer was histologically proven. All diagnosed cancers were potentially curable by surgery. Even though this screening project could be considered as successful after its termination, early detection of breast cancer is not carried out as regular activity due to non existing system to refer women for examination, insufficient technical equipment and shortage of qualified and trained medical personnel.

Based on the experience acquired, we believe that breast cancer screening, as an overall and continuing process, should be part of the regular healthcare system rather than a project or campaign. Screening needs to be an integral part of the primary healthcare system with family medicine as a starting point. Sufficient number of qualified and trained medical personnel, mammographers, spare parts, maintenance and service of the equipment are necessary. Good cooperation and communication of institutions included in the screening and fl ow of relevant information are of basic importance.