Results of the National Breast Cancer Screening Program in Croatia (2006-2016)

Aim: To assess the uptake of the Croatian National Breast Cancer Screening Program from 2006 to 2016.

Methods: The Croatian National Breast Cancer Screening Program, a biennial program targeting women aged 50-69, started in October 2006. From 2006 to 2016, four cycles were completed. One cycle lasted two years, with the exception of the first cycle, which lasted three years. To determine the number of detected cancers in each cycle, the screening program data were merged with the data of the Croatian National Cancer Registry. Our results were compared with the reference values from the European guidelines for quality assurance in breast cancer screening and diagnosis.

Results: Around 150 000 mammography exams were performed every year. The response rates for cycle 1, cycle 2, cycle 3, and cycle 4 were 63%, 57%, 60%, and 59%, respectively. Further assessment rate was 6.5%. Breast cancer was identified in 5583 women, with 4.8 cancers detected per 1000 mammography exams.

Conclusion: The National Breast Cancer Screening Program in Croatia reached a substantial proportion of the target group. Yet, additional efforts are needed to reach at least 70% of the target population.