박용순1, 윤종률2, 김준수3

중앙대학교병원 응급의학과1, 한림대학교 의과대학 한강성심병원 가정의학교실2, 인제대학교 의과대학 부산백병원 가정의학교실3

Background The purpose of cancer screening is to reduce mortality and morbidity from cancers through early diagnosis and treatment. Many hospitals provide cancer screening programs routinely during regular health examinations. This study surveys cancer screening programs and evaluates their scientific evidence by the recommended guidelines. Methods Cancer screening methods were searched through websites provided by the 94 general hospitals in Korea. Screening tests were chosen by diseases. Guidelines of several organizations were reviewed and compared with the scientific evidence of each test by the recommended guidelines. Results There was a total of 44 cancer screening tests, including 35 tests for the 10 major cancers. The study revealed several limitations for cancer screening tests performed at general hospitals in Korea. First, non evidence-based screening tests, such as tumor markers, ultrasonography, and PET-CT were being performed, which continue to raise issues of controversy. Second, most of the cancer screening programs focus mainly on costly laboratory tests, rather than on a physician's encounter with a patient. Finally, current cancer screening programs do not consider individual characteristics such as age, sex, occupation, and risk factors. Conclusions To improve the quality of cancer screening programs, one should administer evidenced-based screening tests based on individual characteristics and risk factors. Appropriate follow-up schedules and counseling should also be offered for each individual, based on their medical needs. (
Korean J Health Promot Dis Prev 2009 ; 9(2):86-96)

Keywords: cancer, screening, guideline, evidence-based