Concurrent utilisation of cancer screening tests in the general population aged 50-69: an analysis of the 2017 Swiss...

This study assessed the extent and factors of concurrent utilisation of cancer screenings in Switzerland.

Data from the 2017 Swiss Health Survey, representing 1,091,813 females and 1,072,940 males aged 50-69, were analysed. Weighted descriptive analyses estimated sex-specific proportions of individuals concurrently up to date with recommended screening for cervical, breast, colorectal, prostate and skin cancer. Multivariable binomial weighted logistic regressions examined associations between concurrent utilisation and sociodemographic, lifestyle, health, health services utilisation, security and social support factors.

Approximately one in three Swiss residents were concurrent screening users. Concurrent utilisation increased with age and frequent medical visits. Among females, concurrent utilisation was positively associated with living in French- or Italian-speaking Switzerland and having tertiary education, and negatively associated with being divorced, separated or widowed, and with non-European origin. Among males, concurrent utilisation was positively associated with income, and negatively associated with unhealthy lifestyles, low health concern, and higher health insurance deductibles.

Further research is needed to clarify the factors underlying differences in screening behaviours. Given the temporal instability of these behaviours, the findings should be interpreted cautiously.