Current status and future role of health screening

To date, screening has largely failed to fulfill the hope that early detection would lead to more effective early treatment and to improved health status in the population served. The future role of screening can be much more positive but only if (1) screening is directed only at diseases and conditions for which early intervention has proven benefits; (2) valid screening methods are developed and used; (3) screening is done in settings in which diagnosis and treatment are assured; and (4) there is continuing scientific evaluation of the benefits and costs of screening.