Too many people are getting screened for cancer, contrary to recommendations set by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. After reviewing the screening histories of over 176,000 patients, Penn State investigators determined that many patients were getting "overscreened." The research shows many are needlessly screened for cancer even when old age or poor health makes such screenings risky and pointless.
Unnecessary screenings can lead to unnecessary tests, costs and potential harms. Screening always entails some degree of risk, and cancer treatment can be harsh. Researchers reason that neither the risk nor the ordeal are worth it for those who don't have long to live anyway.
At an average age of 75, roughly 55,000 men and women were tested for colorectal cancer; 83,000 women for cervical cancer; and 38,000 women for breast cancer. Overscreening rates were pegged at 60% of men and 56% of women for colorectal cancer tests; 46% for cervical cancer; and 74% for breast cancer.
According to study author Jennifer Moss, the task force "recommends routine screening for colorectal cancer up to age 75, for cervical cancer up to age 65, and for breast cancer up to age 74." One main concern is screening risk, including discomfort, stress and anxiety, as well as false positives and unnecessary follow-up procedures, along with side effects such as bleeding or pain, Moss said.
Source: Drugs.com Aug. 6, 2020