Researchers examined population-based data gathered by the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium. Researchers created health outcome models for women aged 50 years to 74 years under treatment regimens calling for screening every one, two or three years. They combined results from three different microsimulation models, developed by the Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network, to identify optimal screening intervals. Women were divided into four groups based on individual cancer risk and breast density.
The study found for women with an average risk of developing breast cancer and low breast density, there was no difference in breast cancer-related deaths averted whether they were screened every two or three years. However, conducting a screening every three years reduced possible harms in this group.
On the other hand, women with both high risk and high breast density saw the most benefit getting screened annually.
The current standard of care for breast cancer screening recommends screening every two years.
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