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Abstract
To review the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to promote
attendance to breast and cervical cancer screening among lower socioeconomic groups.
We performed a computerized literature search looking for relevant papers published
between 1997 and 2006. Papers were classified into three groups based on the type
of intervention evaluated: (1) implementation of organized population screening programs;
(2) different strategies of enhancing attendance within an organized program; (3)
local interventions in disadvantaged populations.
The available evidence supports the hypothesis that while organized population screening
programs are successful in increasing overall participation rates, they may not per
se substantially reduce social inequalities. Some strategies were consistently found
to enhance access to screening among lower socioeconomic groups, including cost-reducing
interventions (e.g. offering free tests and eliminating geographical barriers), a
greater involvement of primary-care physicians and individually tailored pro-active
communication that addresses barriers to screening.
Evidence from studies suggests that the attendance of deprived women to cancer screening
can be improved with organized screening programs tailored to their needs. The same
may apply to the prevention of adverse outcomes of other health conditions, such as
hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes.
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