[Basic principles of a breast cancer detection program]

The results of different programmes for screening carried out at present in foreign countries give sufficient proof of the value of screening for cancer of the breast in asymptomatic women of over 50 years of age. There is a significant reduction in mortality between 30 and 70%, according to different studies. Women who were screened had their cancers diagnosed at an earlier stage of the illness than those who were not screened whatever the ages of the women were. These results give a basis for planning screening in France. However, controlled pilot studies should still be carried out to widen screening in a country. These studies should in particular look at technical methods, evaluate the quality of the information that is obtained and the acceptability by women, as well as the training of radiologists and the qualities of the methods used. Finally, each programme should be controlled by the Public Authorities who will be paying for it.