The economic perspective

The rationale for the economic perspective on screening is presented and th e particular relevance of economic evaluation highlighted. The principles o f economic evaluation are described in terms of measuring and valuing the c osts and outcomes associated with screening. The different types of economi c evaluation are described with discussion of data sources. The problematic issues associated with time preferences and discounting and with the measu rement and valuation of outcomes other than true positives are discussed. I ssues associated with antenatal screening, in particular the inclusion of a verted costs due to the termination of an affected pregnancy and the inclus ion and valuation of the unborn child's utility, are also raised.