A reader's guide to the evaluation of screening studies. Issue 844 (February 1996)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Earle, C.; Hebert, P. C.
• Is Part Of: Postgraduate medical journal. Volume 72:Issue 844(1996)
• Page Start: 77
• Page End: 83
• Publication Date: 1996-02
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/pgmj.72.844.77
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-5473

Abstract

Abstract : In this article we will review how a reader should evaluate a screening study. A clinical problem involving screening mammography is presented. We then outline criteria to determine whether screening is appropriate for a given condition. A search for relevant articles is described followed by an outline of the steps used to appraise a screening study critically. An applicable study is examined in detail for such things as the quality of randomisation and outcomes measured. The results of this study are then applied to a patient considered for screening.