The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Evaluates Physician Screening Practices

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) recently released results from a study focusing on breast and cervical cancer screening practices.

The NBCCEDP makes it possible for low-income, uninsured women to receive breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services.

In a nationally representative survey between 2006 and 2007, the NBCCEDP evaluated 1,111 primary care physicians who provide breast and cervical cancer screenings in different healthcare settings or programs. The study determined that beliefs of physicians were similar by program in relation to the effectiveness of screening tools or procedures in lowering breast or cervical cancer deaths. Moreover, it was found that the integration of new technologies, which includes digital mammography and human papilloma virus (HPV) testing, as well as the establishment of guideline-consistent recommendations for screening initiation, frequency, and cessation, did not vary drastically amongst various settings and programs.

Overall, the study concluded that even though there are variations in physician characteristics and practice environments, the beliefs and screening practices for both breast and cervical cancer are more alike than they are different between program and non-program providers.

Early diagnosis of cancer is the key to timely and effective treatment and care. The failure to diagnose cancer in a timely fashion, or, the misdiagnosis of cancer can result in a progression of the disease process and a worsened prognosis for cure.

If you or a loved one is struggling with cancer and believe a failure to timely diagnose the cancer played a role in the progression of the disease to a later stage, the New Jersey cancer delayed diagnosis lawyers at Blume Forte may be able to help determine if you have a meritorious case. Contact our firm today by calling 973-845-4421 for a no-cost consultation.

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