Abstract
Objective: We examined breast cancer screening rates and screening systems for the cities of Sayama, Kawagoe, Tokorozawa, Iruma, Hanno, and Hidaka in Saitama Prefecture, and determined the problems.
Method: We examined breast cancer screening rates during the period 2006-2008, and breast cancer screening systems in 2011 for the above cities using National Cancer Center data and public information provided by the cities.
Results: The 2008 annual breast cancer screening rates were Iruma 31.0%, Sayama 21.9%, Tokorozawa 16.0%, Hanno 8.9%, Kawagoe 8.0%, and Hidaka 7.1%. The number of mammography screening image certified facilities in each city was 1-10 and the number of certified mammography interpreting doctors was 0-24. Four cities targeted those over 40 years old and 2 cities those over 30 years old in breast cancer screening. The screening frequency of 5 cities was every 2 years and that of 1 city was every year. In 5 cities, screening was done in 2 directions for those 40-49 in age and 1 direction for those over 50 years old. One city screened in 2 directions for anyone over 40 years old. The screening charge ranged from free to a maximum of 1,600 yen. Various types of examination findings sheet were used.
Conclusion: Measures proposed for increasing breast cancer screening rates: Expand breast cancer screening to a wider area, Set screening periods all year round so that examinees are not concentrated at any particular time, Increase number of doctors who can read mammograms, Continue free vouchers, Consider combined mammography and ultrasound diagnosis without clinical breast examination, Standardize examinations, create a common examination findings sheet and aim at improving statistical accuracy of screening.
