Targeted screening in the UK: A narrow concept with broad application

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• A UK report proposed a single integrated advisory body for population and targeted screening programmes.
• International consensus on the definition of targeted screening is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and compare defining components of various screening terms.
• To contribute to an updated definition of targeted screening.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and comparative analysis of definitions for targeted, population, selective, cascade screening, and case finding.
• Identification of key differentiating and overlapping components across screening definitions.

Main Results:

• Targeted and population screening definitions were distinguished by eligible population.
• Targeted and selective screening were found to be conceptually interchangeable.
• Cascade screening was primarily used for genetic diseases, with similarities to targeted screening.
• Little consensus existed for case finding definitions.

Conclusions:

• The review provides an updated definition for targeted screening.
• Significant overlap in definition components suggests a broad remit for the proposed integrated advisory body.
• Clarifying screening terminology is crucial for effective public health policy and programme implementation.