103 Breast screening and quality assurance in the framework of Europe against cancer

Abstract

A European network of breast cancer screening pilot projects was set up from 1988 under the auspices of Europe Against Cancer. Each member state would have a practical source of experience in controlled and organised mammographic screening for political and professional evaluation of the suitability and success of this activity with regard to the health care environment of that state. Additionally there would be a network for exchange of professional knowledge and experience across the member states. Technical and professional quality assurance issues are highlighted and subject to target initiatives. Annual meetings are held for discussion of results and problems with keynote lectures. Activities and funding subsidies are supervised by the Europe Against Cancer Screening Sub-Committee. Funding is only provided for quality assurance activities. Specific allocations are provided for professional training, particularly of radiologists, radiographers and physicists. Regular audit visits by sub-committee representatives are performed with reports made as to progress and quality. A quality assurance manual has been published in the form of European Guidelines For Quality Assurance in Mammographic Screening covering organisation, professional and technical aspects of quality control and quality assurance for breast screening with quantitative parameters. This is translated into all member state languages. It is being revised and similar activities are now taking place with regard to pathology quality assurance. Project EUREF has been set up—a network of recognised experts in the field of breast cancer screening specifically to co-ordinate physico-technical and professional support and training with the ultimate aim of establishing training centres in Europe and reference centres in each member state.