Population screening for breast cancer: expectations and developments

The Dutch population screening programme for breast cancer results in less women dying of breast cancer, because breast cancers are traced and treated earlier. The most important disadvantage of screening for breast cancer is, that it can lead to unnecessary treatment. In part due to the well organised Dutch screening programme, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Still, the screening programme can be improved on several issues. This writes the Dutch Health Council in a recommendation to the Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport.