Study on female breast cancer imaging screening consultation network in Guangdong Province, China

This study aimed to construct breast cancer image screening consultation network (BISCN) that connects all levels of medical institutions in Guangdong Province.

Fourteen hospitals in different cities and counties (districts) of Guang-dong were selected for breast cancer screening with imaging (breast X-ray, ultrasound, and MRI). "Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS)" was taken as reference to build up image data base of breast cancer screening and BISCN that is an internet-based network platform. BISCN quality control was performed to improve the diagnostic accuracy and collaboration of members. In 2011, the BISCN members underwent breast imaging diagnosis training and conducted a questionnaire survey.

BISCN allowed quick, synchronous, and accurate communication and feedback of diagnostic imaging in breast cancer among all levels of medical institutions and improved the ability of breast cancer screening in the province, as well as the detection rate of early breast cancer throughout the province, especially in the grassroot units. The survey results showed that the trainees' understanding situation of the training contents before training was 2.02 ± 1.75 points. Through the study, the participants considered that the teaching contents could solve the daily diagnose problems (2.91 ± 0.70 points), the post-training scores were improved (2.88 ± 1.23 points), and highly satisfactory with the teaching contents (2.81 ± 0.53 points). All students passed the examination and were qualified for the future.

BISCN is of good feasibility in construction and applicability in management by raising diagnosis level of breast cancer in Guangdong Province.