[Integrating cancer screening and primary prevention: a review]

Cancer screening may represent an ideal setting for promoting healthy lifestyle. We conducted a literature review of intervention studies of primary prevention interventions implemented in the context of established screening programmes. We identified 11 trials, 3 of which conducted in Italy. A positive impact of these interventions in favouring the adoption of cancer protective dietary behaviours was observed in all studies. A limited impact was reported for physical activity, while no effect could be observed for interventions aimed to promote smoking cessation. Long term maintenance of the observed behavioural changes and the sustainability overtime of these interventions within population-based programmes should be assessed. To enhance their effectiveness, these health education programmes should include multiple strategies, integrating and combining models of individual, social, and environmental change.