Early indicators of the effect of a breast cancer screening program for low-income women

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) w as developed to increase screening among low-income women who are uninsured or underinsured. This study reports early indicators of the effectiveness of this: breast screening program in Iowa. Using data from the Census Burea u and the Iowa Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, we found that ra cial and ethnic minorities aged 50 to 64 more likely were screened by the N BCCEDP than were their counterparts. Data collected by the Iowa BCCEDP show ed a breast cancer detection rate (7.1 per 1.000 women screened) that was a t least three times higher than its historical comparison, an indication of the lead time of the screened over the nonscreened population. Predictive values positive (referral and biopsy) and stage distribution were typically higher than for the national program but lower than in other countries. In conclusion, a breast cancer screening program among low-income women can b e implemented successfully, judged by early indicators of program effective ness.