[Mass examination for gynecological cancer--status and future]

In Norway, mass examination for cervical cancer was started in 1995 with the goal to reduce incidence and mortality through rational use of resources. This has been successful. We wished to assess the knowledge base for this practice, as well as that on usefulness of mass examination for ovarian cancer and uterine body cancer.

This article is based on literature identified through a non-systematic search in PubMed.

Despite knowledge of several risk factors for uterine body cancer, there is not sufficient evidence to support mass examination for this condition. Within a few years it will become clear whether large ongoing studies provide sufficient evidence to recommend screening for ovarian cancer. The effect of mass examination for cervical cancer is well documented.

Cervical cancer is the only gynecological condition with an established mass examination program. This program must be adapted to new methods and the population's vaccine status in the coming years. There is not sufficient documentation on ovarian cancer or uterine body cancer to support mass examination, but this may change during a few years.