[Tumor screening with special reference to breast and prostate carcinoma]

After a theoretical introduction regarding screening with tumor markers and other examinations the current knowledge is discussed from the view points of an epidemiologist and a clinician as well. Screening for persons with normal risk is only advocated for cervical carcinoma and breast cancer in women aged 50 to 70 years. Screening for colon cancer with fecal occult blood tests remains unsatisfactory. Screening for prostate cancer is not recommended due to still lacking evidence of reduction in mortality and a high potential of side effects induced by early therapy with curative intent. Screening for ovarian cancer and lung cancer is not justifiable with current technology. However, persons with a known hereditary cancer syndrome or affected first-degree relatives have a much higher risk justifying screening for colon, prostate or breast cancer even below the age of 50 years.