Some cancer screens don’t extend life.

While screening helps some, others’ lives shorten due to it.

Standard cancer screening might not elongate lives, except perhaps for colorectal cancer screening, as indicated by data.

While the study doesn’t propose ending cancer screening, researchers assert the need for enhanced guidance on screening’s risks and benefits for patients.

Many nations have initiated screening programs to detect cancers early. For instance, the UK offers routine mammograms for breast cancer and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer.

Michael Bretthauer, a professor of medicine at the University of Oslo in Norway leading the study, commented, “The phrase ‘screening saves lives’ is often used in the context of people living longer due to screening. We aimed to validate this claim.”

Consider this scenario: a small number of women might face issues like blood clots or infections after mammograms and subsequent breast surgery. Similarly, complications could arise during colorectal cancer screening, such as perforations or bleeding.

Bretthauer highlighted the unpredictability factor, stating, “I might be fortunate, benefitting from longer life due to screening, or I might face complications that shorten my life.”

He emphasized that the study doesn’t discourage screening but intends to prompt a sensible discussion about screening expectations. “Organizations promoting cancer screening as life-saving should exercise caution in this messaging,” he added.

Instead, he suggested providing patients comprehensive information about the pros and cons of screening and cancer treatment, enabling informed decisions about their health.

Nicola Smith, a senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, cautioned that the study didn’t cover all suggested national screening programs and tests in the UK.

“Cancer screening aims to detect disease early in asymptomatic individuals, increasing the chance of successful treatment,” she noted. “Evidence indicates that participating in UK screening programs for breast, bowel, and cervical cancer can reduce mortality risk.”

Smith stressed the rigorous process behind recommending screening programs, emphasizing the careful evaluation of harm and benefits. Acknowledging screening’s limitations, she highlighted the importance of providing individuals with high-quality information to help decide whether to accept screening invitations.