Population-based mammography screening program in Latvia: Results of the first round.

Abstract

e11038 Background: The incidence of breast cancer is increasing in Latvia as well as the mortality, mainly due to the high rate of advanced stage disease at the time of diagnosis. Mammography (MG) screening programme was initiated to diagnose breast cancer in earlier stages when treatment results are better. Methods: Population-based mammography screening programme in Latvia was launched in January 2009. The program offers a biennial mammography screening to women aged between 50 and 69. Screening is decentralised, 25 radiology units are involved in MG screening programme. Double reading of mammograms is mandatory according to the national policy. Results: Selection of the target population for MG screening was based on population register of Latvia. 286,785 women were invited to have screening MG from January 2009 to December 2010. 57,340 (20%) screening MG had been done. Participation varied from 17.3% to 22.7% in different regions of Latvia; however the avarage participation rate was low. The results (...