Population-based mammography screening programme should be rigorously evaluated

Any standard textbook of epidemiology will caution that issues such as appropriateness and evaluation of the screening test, subsequent diagnosis and management, and associated risks or costs, need to be rigorously considered to achieve the best value in population health terms. The CEWG states that there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against population-based mammography screening for local asymptomatic women at average risk. Of equal importance is the need for all stakeholder groups to encourage women to adopt healthy lifestyle habits that protect against breast cancer development, such as avoiding alcohol consumption, engaging in moderate and vigorous physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight and waist circumference, and breastfeeding for as long as possible5; as well as raising breast awareness and literacy so that women seek medical attention as soon as they notice any unusual breast changes.