Publication:

Epidemiological determinants of age for effective cervical and breast cancer screening in menopausal women

Background Breast and cervical cancer screening play an important role in reducing cancer mortality. Family history and other screening tools are helpful in reducing cancer burden. Present study is focused on the impact of early screening of cervical and breast cancer on incidence of both cancers with focus on menopausal women ageing 30-70.

Methods It is an epidemiological study in Ajmer municipal area with retrospective and prospective recorded data on cervical and breast cancer screening. Factors which are not considered may drive the observed association Participants of current study were registered and diagnosed with cervical and breast cancer in different hospital of Ajmer municipal area between January 2011-March 2015.468 women aged 30-70 with invasive cervical and breast cancer diagnosed in different major hospitals of Ajmer municipal area. Control participants were matched on area of residence and by age-group. Association between cancer and screening at particular ages are co-related to determine odd ratios.

Results There is evidence that screening was associated with a 32% reduction of cervical cancer and 48% reduction of breast cancer in women aged 45.There is 41% reduction of cervical cancer and 52% reduction of breast cancer in women aged 55.There is no evidence of reduction in incidence of cervical and breast cancer at 35 (Odd Ratio 1.12, 95% confidence interval 0.84 to 1.52). Screening in later age reduces incidence and mortality from cervical and breast cancer.

Conclusions To significantly reduce the breast and cervical cancer mortality, screening should be sturdily intensified to improve long term effectiveness. Quality assessment of early screening should be done via early indicators. New screening modalities have been introduced and some of them should be gradually incorporated into society practice.