Detection Program Research Articles

Prevention of credit card fraud transaction using GA feature selection for web-based application

Credit card fraud (CCF) is a regular event that generates financial losses. A considerable share of the significantly increased volume of internet transactions is made with credit cards. CCF detection programmes are consequently highly prioritised by banks and other financial organisations. These fraudulent transactions can come in a wide variety of formats and categories. To maintain data integrity, financial institutions support digital transactions. One of the most popular ways to pay the products and services can be done by both online and offline by using a credit card. Thus, there is a higher possibility of fraud during these financial transactions. This informs programmers to the requirement for a reliable technique for identifying successful fraud. Credit card users and businesses that accept credit cards have recently had to contend with the serious issue of CCF. Application-level frauds and transaction level frauds are the two categories into which CCF controlled frauds are divided. Therefore, utilizing genetic algorithm (GA) feature selection for web-based applications, it is advised to use this strategy as a method for the prevention of CCF transaction. This method's performance is evaluated based on a number of factors, including accuracy, recall, and specificity.

Re-emerging Chandipura vesiculovirus: A cause of concern for global health.

Chandipura vesiculovirus(CHPV) is an emerging neurotropic virus primarily affecting children and causing acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) in India. The virus, transmitted mainly by sand flies, has led to multiple outbreaks with high mortality rates, particularly in rural and resource-limited settings. CHPV infection is characterized by rapid disease progression, with symptoms ranging from fever and seizures to coma and death, often within 24 to 48h of onset. The current management of CHPV is limited to supportive care due to the lack of specific antiviral therapies. Diagnosis relies on laboratory methods such as RT-PCR, serology, and immunofluorescence, though these face challenges due to the rapid progression of the disease and the need for timely sample collection and analysis. Prevention strategies are focused on vector control through insecticide use and public health interventions, including community education and early detection programs. Despite some progress in understanding CHPV, significant research gaps remain, particularly in developing effective antiviral treatments and vaccines, understanding transmission dynamics, and improving diagnostic capabilities. The potential for the virus to spread globally due to factors like climate change and increased human movement underscores the need for international collaboration in surveillance and response efforts. Strengthening public health infrastructure, enhancing vector control measures, and fostering global partnerships are crucial steps toward mitigating the impact of CHPV and preventing future outbreaks. Continued research and proactive public health strategies are essential to protect vulnerable populations and control the spread of this potentially deadly virus.

Outcome of early detection approach in control of breast, cervical, and oral cancer: Experience from a rural cancer center in India.

In low- and middle-income countries most of the cancer patients attend the hospital at a late stage and treatment completion of these cases is challenging. The early detection program (EDP), in rural areas of Punjab state, India was initiated to identify breast, cervical, and oral cancer at an early stage by raising awareness and providing easy access to diagnosis and treatment. A total of 361 health education programs and 99 early detection clinics were organized. The symptomatic and self-interested (non-symptomatic individuals who opted for screening) cases visited the detection clinic. They were screened for breast, cervical, and/or oral cancer. Further diagnosis and treatment of screen-positive cases were carried out at Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital (HBCH), Sangrur. Community leaders and healthcare workers were involved in all the activities. The EDP, Sangrur removed barriers between cancer diagnosis and treatment with the help of project staff. From 2019 to 2023, a total of 221,317 populations were covered. Symptomatic and self-interested individuals attended the breast (1627), cervical (1601), and oral (1111) examinations. 46 breast (in situ-4.3%; localized-52.2%), 9 cervical (localized-77.8%), and 12 oral (localized-66.7%) cancer cases were detected, and treatment completion was 82.6%, 77.8%, and 50.0%, respectively. We compared cancer staging and treatment completion of cases detected through EDP with the cases attended HBCH from Sangrur district in 2018; the difference between two groups is statistically significant. Due to the early detection approach, there is disease down-staging and improvement in treatment completion. This approach is feasible and can be implemented to control these cancers in low- and middle-income countries.

Recent Research Trends against Skin Carcinoma - An Overview.

Skin cancer is a prevalent and sometimes lethal cancer that affects a wide range of people. UV radiation exposure is the main cause of skin cancer. Immunosuppression, environmental factors, and genetic predisposition are other contributing variables. Fair-skinned people and those with a history of sunburns or severe sun exposure are more likely to experience this condition. Melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) are the three main forms. Melanoma poses a bigger hazard because of its tendency for metastasis, while SCC and BCC have limited metastatic potential. Genetic mutations and changes to signalling pathways such as p53 and MAPK are involved in pathogenesis. Early diagnosis is essential, and molecular testing, biopsy, dermoscopy, and visual inspection can all help. In addition to natural medicines like curcumin and green tea polyphenols, treatment options include immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. Reducing the incidence of skin cancer requires preventive actions, including sun protection and early detection programs. An overview of skin cancers, including their forms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment, highlighting herbal therapy, is given in this review.

Cancer mortality trends in Luxembourg: A 24-year descriptive study (1998–2021)

BackgroundCancer, the second most common cause of death worldwide, is projected to cause 17 million deaths by 2045. Epidemiological studies on cancer play a vital role in understanding cancer burden impact and formulating control plans. This study aimed to analyse the changes in cancer mortality rates within Luxembourg from 1998 to 2021 by sex and age. MethodsData on cancer-related deaths were extracted from Luxembourg's National Registry of Death Causes (1998–2021), and the corresponding population data were analysed. Age-standardized mortality rates (ASRs) per 100,000 individuals were calculated and adjusted to the European standard population. To identify significant changes in cancer mortality over time, the Average Annual Percentage Changes (AAPC) method was used. ResultsWe identified 23,750 cancer-related deaths, resulting in an ASR of 152.86 per 100,000 people per year. Lung cancer was the most common cancer-related case of death in men and in both sexes combined. In women, breast cancer was the most common cancer death. Significant decreases in the ASR over time were observed for both sexes. Sex-specific cancers, such as prostate (AAPC: −2.7) and breast (AAPC: −1.0) cancers, also exhibited significant decreasing trends in mortality. In the evaluation by life stage, stability or significant decreases were observed for women, men and both sexes, however significant increases were observed in late adulthood women in laryngeal and lung cancer (AAPC: 3.9 and 1.8, respectively). The trend patterns observed during 1998–2021 were largely consistent with those seen when excluding the COVID-19 pandemic year of 2020. ConclusionOur study provides a comprehensive analysis of mortality trends by cancer type in Luxembourg, contributing to the understanding of cancer epidemiology and informing healthcare policy and planning. This highlights the importance of targeted public health interventions as such early detection and screening programs and continued advancements in cancer treatment.

Hohes Niveau asbestassoziierter Todesfälle: Früherkennungsprogramme und ihre ambivalente Wirkung

High levels of asbestos-related deaths: Early detection programs and their ambivalent effects (Interview) The number of asbestos-related deaths due to occupational diseases remains high. the German Social Accident Insurance (DGuV) reported 1520, 1623, and 1328 fatalities in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively. To address this, occupational associations offer early detection programs. Since 1973, preventive medical check-ups have been carried out for employees formerly exposed to asbestos as part of secondary prevention. however, anxiety and uncertainty about the disease can deter individuals from participating, impacting the program’s effectiveness.

Colorectal cancer screening in Tuzla canton: Project and strategy for patients with average cancer risk

Background: Screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) can identify premalignant lesions and detect asymptomatic malignant tumors at an early stage that have a better chance of healing, but also longer-term better treatment outcomes. Screening has been shown to reduce mortality from CRC. The aim of this paper is comprehensive education of health care professionals in the Tuzla Canton about this disease, adoption of new guidelines and simpler route from diagnosis to surgical treatment,which ultimately leads to reduced mortality and better outcomes in treatment. Material and methods:The project included family medicine specialists, surgeons and gastroenterologists, 100 of them. The education project was led by two surgeons, who implemented the guidelines ofthe American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 2021, when it comes to screening CRC. Results: None of the participants offered all correct answers in tests, prior to the training, in both groups of doctors. For a post-educational test, data suggest that there has been a noticeable improvement in the results. In a group of doctors with over 10 years of service, 71 (98.61%) answered correctly all the questions offered and only 1 (1.39%) between 5 and 9 correct answers. For a group of doctors with less than 10 years of service, 26 (92.86%) provided all correct answers and only 2 (7, 14%) between 5 and 9 correct answers.Conclusion: This project pointed to the necessary education of healthcare professionals in this area, who are involved in early detection programmes for CRC, especially family medicine specialists, surgeons and gastroenterologists.

Double ended frequency-scanning heterodyne interferometer for absolute length measurement of opaque blocks

A new contactless method based on frequency-scanning heterodyne interferometry is proposed to measure the absolute length of opaque blocks with fragile reflective surfaces. This method is significant in scientific research, such as determining the absolute length of torsion pendulums in gravitational experiments or test masses in gravitational wave detection programs. In addition to avoiding possible damage caused by contact measurement, this optical setup has the potential for higher measurement accuracy compared to contact measurement apparatuses. Two gauge blocks with nominal lengths of 40 mm and 50 mm are used to test the performance of the proposed interferometer, and the measurement results closely match their nominal lengths. The combined uncertainty is 0.62μm and 0.48μm for the 40 mm and 50 mm gauge blocks respectively.

Edukasi Deteksi Dini Kanker Serviks Di Desa Bangun Rejo Tahun 2024

Background: Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in Indonesia. Cancer has a high mortality rate caused by delays in diagnosis and treatment. Nearly 70% of cancer patients are detected at an advanced stage. This is very unfortunate, because cervical cancer can be found at a stage before cancer occurs (precancerous lesions) which can be treated so that it does not become cancer. The early detection program for cervical cancer in Indonesia is carried out using the Acetic Acid Visual Inspection (IVA) method carried out by trained health workers. In three years (2020-2022), as many as 3,914,885 women aged 30-50 years or 9.3% of the target have undergone early detection of cervical cancer using the IVA method. The highest early detection of targets has undergone early detection of cervical cancer using the IVA method. Early detection was reported by West Nusa Tenggara Province at 34.1%, followed by South Sumatra at 33.5%, and Bangka Belitung Islands at 27.8%. Meanwhile, the province with the lowest early detection coverage is Papua at 0.1%, followed by West Papua at 0.4%, and North Sulawesi at 0.7%. In 2022, of the 2,175,314 women aged 30-50 years who had early detection of cervical cancer, 7,869 (0.36%) had positive VIA examination results and 1,232 (0.06%) were suspected of cervical cancer.

A Screening Strategy to Mitigate Vision Impairment by Engaging Adults Who Underuse Eye Care Services

Underuse of eye care services leads to underdiagnosed and undertreated eye disease. To assess the reasons for underuse of eye care and whether a novel, free eye disease screening program is engaging adults who are both at high risk of eye disease and were underusing eye care services. In a population-based cross-sectional study, adult participants from the first year of the Michigan Screening and Intervention for Glaucoma and Eye Health Through Telemedicine (MI-SIGHT) Program were included. The participants were recruited from primary care clinics serving 2 low-income communities. Recruitment occurred between June 28, 2020 and June 27, 2021 at the free clinic, and between January 27, 2021 and January 26, 2022 at a federally qualified health clinic. Data were analyzed from December 7, 2022, to May 29, 2024. Participants received comprehensive eye disease screening and completed surveys assessing health and prior eye care use. Risk factors for eye disease included age 65 years and older, diabetes, personal or family history of eye disease, and self-identifying as Black or African American individuals who were aged 50 years or older. Underuse of eye care was defined as no eye examination in 2 or more years. Percentage of participants who were at high risk of eye disease and underused eye care services before accessing this program. A total of 1171 MI-SIGHT participants were a mean (SD) age of 55 (14.5) years; 437 (38%) identified as male; 591 (54%) self-identified as Black or African American, 101 (10%) as Hispanic or Latino, and 371 (34%) as White; 492 (43%) had high school education or less, and 696 (70%) reported an annual household income of less than $30 000. Characteristics of participants reporting not having had an eye examination in 2 years or more included 23% (n = 151) of participants 65 years and over, 33% (n = 214) of participants who self-reported diabetes, 25% (n = 130) of participants reporting a family history of glaucoma, 3% (n = 14) of those with self-reported glaucoma; and 33% (n = 202) of Black or African-American participants aged 50 years and older. In participants who reported not having had an eye examination in 2 or more years, 21% (n = 137) screened positive for glaucoma, 20% (n = 129) for cataract, 6% (n = 38) for diabetic retinopathy, and 1% (n = 9) for age-related macular degeneration. Reported reasons for why participants had not had an eye examination included no insurance (175 of 627 [28%]), no reason to go (no problem) (135 of 627 [22%]), and cost of eye examination (101 of 627 [16%]). The findings of this study suggest that placing eye disease detection programs in primary care clinics in underserved areas may improve eye disease detection and treatment, possibly mitigating needless vision loss in the US.

A space-borne ultra-stable laser system with an excellent long-term frequency stability for gravitational wave detection

Abstract Ultra-stable lasers are pivotal in various scientific applications, notably in space gravitational wave detection projects. We develop a space-borne ultra-stable laser system based on a home-made non-planar ring oscillator (NPRO) laser and an ultra-stable cavity laser stabilization system. The ultra-stable cavity is a vertically mounted 8 cm long cavity, with tunable zero-crossing temperature and low vibrational sensitivity. To make a cavity with any standard grade ultra-low expansion glass (ULE) material, and tune the zero-crossing temperature to the satellite platform temperature, we design three ultra-stable cavities with different configurations to unambiguously explore their thermal properties. The measurement results meet the design goals well, and the zero-crossing temperature of the cavity can be tuned from − 19 ∘ C to 16.0 °C. We measure the temperature fluctuation noise through modulation experiment, and it agrees well with the theoretical simulations. The vibrational sensitivities in three directions are measured to be around 10−11 /g–10−10 /g. The total weight of the system is 14.0 kg, with a volume of about 18 L, and the power dissipation of the electrical system is 18.6 W. Finally, the prototype of the space-borne laser shows a frequency instability of 9.5 × 10 − 16 at 0.2 s, and the frequency noise is measured to be 3.6 Hz/Hz1/2 at 6 mHz over three months, satisfying the mission targets of all current space gravitational wave detection programs.

Mortality Rate and Years of Life Lost Due to Breast and Gynecologic Cancers in Southern Iran 2004-2019: A Population-Based Study.

There is an increase in the incidence of breast and gynecologic cancers in Iran during the last three decades. Literature is inadequate about the Years of Life Lost (YLL) attributed to these cancers in Iran. Mortality data due to these cancers amongst females aged >20 yr from 2004 to 2019 was acquired from "Electronic Death Registry System", Fars Province, Iran. Using local health centers' databases and national census reports from 1996 to 2016, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) per 100,000 people were estimated. YLLs were calculated using the WHO's 2015 "YLL template". During 2004-2019, 1886 and 829 deaths occurred due to breast and gynecologic cancers, respectively. The ASR due to breast and gynecologic cancers showed a significant increasing trend (P<0.001 for each). The total YLL due to breast, cervical/uterine/vaginal/vulvar, and ovary cancers' deaths in the 16-year period were 33,077, 7,172 and 6,584 yr, respectively. The highest YLLs were observed in 50-59-year-old females, followed by 40-49- and 60-69-year-old females. The 16- year trend of YLL rate due to premature mortality in breast cancer, ovary cancer and cervix cancer was increasing: annual percent change (APC) was 7.6% (95% CI: 5.5-9.7, P<0.001), 19.0% (95% CI: 12.2-26.1, P<0.001) and 9.2% (95% CI: -9.2 to 31.3, P>0.05, respectively. Mortality rate and YLLs due to breast and gynecologic cancers have been increased in southern Iran during the last twenty years. Early detection programs and allocating treatments at early stages should be prioritized.

Integrating point-of-care diabetes detection with lifestyle counselling in community settings: outcomes from Western Sydney, Australia

IntroductionEarly detection and prevention of type 2 diabetes and its complications are global health priorities. Optimal outcomes depend on individual awareness and proactive self-management of health risks. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a community-based diabetes detection and intervention program in a high-risk area in western Sydney, Australia.Research design and methodsWe collaborated with the Workers Lifestyle Group, Tamil Association Arts and Culture Association, and the National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee to implement our program. Participants underwent HbA1C testing via point-of-care blood spot testing. They received personalized feedback, education on diabetes management, and were offered opportunities to enrol in lifestyle modification programs. Participants identified with pre-diabetes (HbA1C 5.7–6.4%) or diabetes (HbA1C > 6.4%) were advised to consult their General Practitioners (GPs). A follow-up questionnaire was distributed 3–8 months post-intervention to evaluate the programs usefulness and relevance and lifestyle changes implemented by the participants.ResultsOver eight months, 510 individuals participated. Of these, 19% had an HbA1C > 6.4%, and 38% had levels between 5.7 and 6.4%. Among those with diabetes, HbA1C levels ranged as follows: 56% <7%; 20% 7-7.9%; 18% 8-8.9%; and 5% >9%. Post intervention survey indicated that the program was well-received, with 62.5% of responses reporting lifestyle changes and 36.3% seeking further advice from their local healthcare providers.ConclusionThe study demonstrates a significant prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes in the community, similar to findings from larger-scale hospital and general practice studies. Point-of-care testing combined with personalized education effectively motivated participants toward healthier lifestyle choices and medical consultations. The paper discusses the scalability of this approach for broader population.

Risk-adapted early detection program for prostate cancer2.0-position paper of the German Society of Urology 2024

Despite the proven effectiveness of organized PSA-based screening in reducing prostate cancer-related mortality, there is currently no program in Germany covered by statutory health insurance. In accordance with the EU Council Decision (2022/0290(NLE)), the German Society of Urology (DGU) has developed aconcept for risk-adapted prostate cancer early detection. Based on aliterature review of current screening studies, an algorithm for PSA-based prostate cancer early detection was developed. Risk-adapted prostate cancer screening involves PSA testing in the age group of 45-70years, followed by PSA-based individual risk stratification and stepwise expansion of diagnostics through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to biopsy. While initially up to 2.6million men will undergo PSA testing, areduction in these initial examinations to fewer than 200,000 men per year will occur from year four onwards. The presented algorithm provides clear recommendations for risk-adapted PSA-based early detection for prostate cancer for urologists and patients. The goal is to improve diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer, while reducing overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

Cervical Cancer Screening: An Analysis of Three Large South African Medical Schemes

Cervical cancer poses a considerable public health challenge in South Africa, necessitating effective screening programs for early detection and prevention. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted healthcare services, including cervical cancer screening, posing challenges to disease management efforts. This study aimed to assess cervical cancer incidence and screening practices among beneficiaries within three major South African medical schemes, analysing trends from 2017 to 2022. Retrospective data were collected to evaluate incidence rates and screening coverage, considering the impact of the pandemic. Screening coverage declined during the epidemic, recovering in 2021 but declining again in 2022. Different health plans showed a more than forty per cent fall in cervical cancer screening rates between 2021 and 2022, with 2022 having the lowest level, even lower than the COVID-19 era. The trends indicate COVID-19 interruptions have a negative impact post-COVID-19. Recommendations include targeted outreach, telemedicine options, and strengthened collaboration to enhance screening programs and mitigate pandemic-related disruptions. This study contributes valuable insights into cervical cancer management, highlighting the need for proactive measures to ensure the continuity of essential healthcare interventions amid public health emergencies.

Patient factors that lead to presentation delay in breast cancer among Sri Lankan women: A cross-sectional study

Background: Breast cancer (BC) poses a significant public health concern as it is the most common cancer detected among women worldwide. Early detection and intervention are associated with better prognosis and survival. A primary reason for the rising mortality and morbidity in developing countries is the lack of patient education and practice early detection programs and presentation. Aims and Objectives: The main objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of delayed presentation and the factors lead to delay among BC patients in Sri Lanka. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January 01, 2023, to June 30, 2023 among women diagnosed with BC attending two selected state hospitals in Sri Lanka. All women with histological diagnosis of early, locally advanced, or metastatic BC attending for treatment were included and women with recurrent BC and concomitant other cancers were excluded. Presentation delay was defined as ≥3 months. The calculated sample size was 396. Results: About 47.5% of our study population (n=188) had a presentation delay of more than 3 months. The main reasons for the delay in presentation were, being unaware that BC is a major problem in Sri Lanka, difficulty in accessing healthcare, and not being able to find time due to family and social commitments. Women who had not been practicing self-breast examination had a significant association with presentation delay (OR=3.26, 95% CI - 0.090–0.362, P=0.001). The participants who were having a presentation delay were also more likely to be diagnosed with an advanced stage of cancer (OR=2.86, 95% CI - 2.573–3.153, P=0.000). Conclusion: Our study population depicts a good knowledge related to BC symptoms, risk factors, and early detection methods. However, very few are practicing them. There is also a significant delay of presentation due to various factors. Awareness and good practices would lead to early detection and diagnosis and improve overall survival.

Prostate cancer screening? Only evidence-based, risk-adjusted, and organized!

In view of arecent recommendation of the European Commission to conceptualize novel screening approaches for lung, gastric, and prostate cancer, Germany is also invoked to revise its prostate early detection program. This discussion article provides an overview of new findings on prostate cancer screening, which suggest an organized and risk-adapted screening approach. Based on the German risk-adapted screening trial PROBASE, together with recently published data on organized screening programs in Europe, model projects should be established to determine the specific modalities for anew organized and risk-adapted prostate cancer screening program.

Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer in Algeria: a single-center retrospective study

BackgroundLung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death in men in Algeria. Little is known about the characteristics of lung cancer in Algeria. This study aimed to determine the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients in Algeria.MethodsThis retrospective study was performed on 269 pathologically confirmed cases of NSCLC at the Benbadis University Hospital of Constantine (2015–2023). Of these, 95 patients were included in the survival analysis. The clinicopathological and outcome data were investigated based on the patients’ medical records.ResultsThis study showed male predominance with sex ratio of 5.7, with a mean age of 61.8 years. Histologically, 67.3% of cases had adenocarcinoma (ADC) and 22.7% squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). ADC and SCC occurred more frequently in female (p = 0.02) and male (p = 0.003) patients, respectively. Smoking was estimated at 82.2% in men. Over 28% were non-smokers, of which 50.7% were women, and presented at younger age (p = 0.04). Most of our patients (75.5%) have an advanced stage at diagnosis. Around 70% of patients underwent chemotherapy (CT) as first-line treatment, with medians diagnostic and treatment delays of 4 and 1 months, respectively. The median overall survival (mOS) was estimated at 10.3 and 6.7 months in I-III and IV stages, respectively. Other factors that negatively impact OS were age > 65 years (p = 0.01), and the presence of symptoms (p = 0.005) and comorbidity (p = 0.004) in stage IV, and delayed treatment (p = 0.03) and receiving CT alone (p = 0.03) in stages I-III cases. Medians progression free survival (mPFS) in stage IV, III, and II patients were 4.1, 5.2, and 8.3 months, respectively, and negatively affected by the comorbidity (stage IV, p = 0.03) and receiving CT alone (stages II-III, p = 0.03).ConclusionsNSCLC presents at an early age and advanced stage in Algerian patients. ADC is the most frequent histological subtype and smoking remains the most important risk factor in men. Furthermore, the prognostic factors affecting survival are stage, age, comorbidity, symptoms, and treatment. Thus, tobacco control, early detection program, and access to novel therapies may be the best strategies to reduce NSCLC morbidity and mortality.

The HSACat Project: A Prospective Multicenter Observational Study of Spontaneous Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Catalonia, Spain

Incidence, clinical course, and fatality of spontaneous subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) are evolving, with prevalence of risk factors diminishing, implementation of early detection programs and strategies for priority aneurysm exclusion, technical refinement towards less invasive procedures, and improvements in neurocritical care. Modern epidemiological and prognostic data are lacking, especially in southern European and Mediterranean populations. A prospective multicentre observational study on SAH was held in Catalonia, Northeast Spain, 2020-2022 (HSACat project). All public tertiary hospitals participated in a common registry. Primary endpoints were functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale, mRS) and mortality at 12-months. Secondary aims included epidemiological data, flux of patients between referral and tertiary hospitals, diagnostic and treatment delays, and in-hospital complications. Of 550 SAH cases reported in Catalonia (2020-2022), 474 had a complete registry for analysis. Death rate was 20.6% during hospital admission and 26.9% at one year. Good functional outcome (mRS 0-2) was observed in 63.4%, 70.1% and 76.0% at 3, 6 and 12 months. Age at presentation was lower in men, smokers, and hypertensives (p<0.05). The female:male ratio was 3:2, except in non-aneurysmal group. Time from onset to tertiary-hospital admission was longer in rural than metropolitan zones (7.0h vs 4.7h, p<0.01). Aneurysm occlusion in the first 72h was achieved in 83.3%; mainly endovascularly (77.5%) than microsurgically (19.3%). Even when most patients received timely aneurysmal treatment, rates of case fatality are considerably high. Data provided by the HSAcat project may have public health repercussions and be used to guide prevention programs and screening strategies.

Breast cancer screening and early detection programs in Iran: A health policy analysis and recommendations

AbstractScreening and early detection programs for breast cancer (BC) have significantly reduced mortality rates and enhanced survival rates globally. Breast cancer screening programs in low‐ and middle‐income countries like Iran need improvement. This study examines Iran's breast cancer screening and early detection (BCSED) policies, employing the Policy Triangle Model in two phases: a review of 27 documents including various related sources related of policies and strategies, followed by 20 semi‐structured interviews across four distinct levels: policy, regional, clinical, and community levels. Content analysis for documents and MAXQDA2020 software for the second phase were used, and findings integrated. In our analysis of 27 national documents and 20 interviews, we found 10 themes, 19 sub‐themes, and 42 specific codes across four dimensions of the mentioned framework. Main themes in the context dimension covered deficient interactions, deficiency in knowledge management, cultural challenges, and socioeconomic challenges. From the analysis of 27 national documents, we recognized service excellence schemes, personal health encouragement, and service levels. Policy formulation and monitoring and evaluation emerged as central themes for the process dimension, while stakeholder challenges were prominent in the actors' dimension. BCSED programs are multifactorial issues. Proposed strategies to address these issues include the dedicated funds for BC prevention programs, strengthening the Ministry of Health's stewardship role, elevating public awareness, and conducting systematic screening trials in select cities to provide valuable national evidence for future policymaking.