Extending routine invitation to breast screening to the 65-69 year age group: report of the Scottish pilot study

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In parallel with the UK demonstration projects, looking at the question of extending the age of invitation to 69 years, the Scottish Breast Screening Programme was funded to produce a model with the following aims: (1) predict increase in demand; (2) relate this increase to current capacity; (3) identify increased resources required.

A study group aged 65-69 years from practices routinely being invited was identified, reflecting the deprivation category profile of Glasgow and screening was offered in both static and mobile settings. Full screening histories, both in relation to current and previous attendance, were taken and all attendees compiled a self-completion questionnaire. In addition, interviews of samples of attendees and non-attendees were undertaken. The screening history deprivation category and mobile units each proved to be significant determinants of attendance following routine invitation. In addition, the model correctly predicted attendance for 88.3% of attendees and correctly predicted non-attendance for 74.8% of non-attendees. This model has been used as a basis to predict the resource implications of an extension of the Programme up to and including the age of 69 years. The detailed results of the study and resource implications will be discussed.