Cancer screening: global debates and Cuban experience

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Cancer screening is crucial for early detection and improved patient outcomes.
• International organizations like the WHO provide guidelines for recommended cancer screenings.
• Cuba has established a national cancer control strategy that incorporates screening protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recommended cancer screening strategies.
• To assess international positions on cancer screening.
• To evaluate the alignment of Cuba's cancer control strategy with international recommendations and identify areas for improvement.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of screening strategies for major cancer sites.
• Assessment of World Health Organization (WHO) and other international guidelines.
• Analysis of Cuba's national cancer control strategy and its screening requirements.

Main Results:

• Universal screening is recommended for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers, aligning with Cuba's strategy.
• Cuba also recommends PSA testing for at-risk men, oral cancer screenings, and skin cancer examinations for at-risk individuals.
• Current Cuban screening protocols include specific age and risk criteria for various cancer types.

Conclusions:

• Cuba's cancer control strategy incorporates universally recommended screenings.
• Enhancing screening coverage and conducting studies on current performance are essential for maximizing early cancer detection benefits in Cuba.
• Further research is needed to optimize screening effectiveness within Cuba's healthcare system.