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Abstract

Estimation of the Cost-Effectiveness of Breast Cancer Screening Using Mammography in Mexico Through a Simulation

VOLUME 68 - NUMBER 4 / July - August (Original articles)

Ernesto Ulloa-Pérez, Epidemiology Unit, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, SSA, Mexico City, Mexico
Alejandro Mohar, Department of Research and Breast Tumors, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Mexico City;; Joven & Fuerte: Program for the Care and Research of Young Women with Breast Cancer in Mexico, Mexico City; Unidad de Epidemiología e Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, INCan-UNAM, Mexico City; Mexico
Nancy Reynoso-Noverón, Epidemiology Unit, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, SSA, Mexico City, Mexico

Background: Currently, breast cancer is the most prevalent tumor among Mexican women. Screening methods such as mammography could potentially reduce the health and economic burden of breast cancer; however, its risk-benefit balance is still unclear. Objective: To estimate the cost-effectiveness of different breast cancer screening programs using mammography in Mexico and to contribute to the decision-making process on this preventive measure. Methods: A simulation study was performed using population data and incidence rates. Several screening programs were assessed using the cost-effectiveness methodology recommended by the World Health Organization. Results: The feasible recommended screening program has an examination schedule periodicity of every three years, with a population coverage of 0, 15, 18, 20, 25, 20, 18, and 0% for the age groups of 25-40, 40-45, 45-50, 50-55, 55-60, 60-65, 65-70, and 70-75 years, respectively. Conclusions: Given the present coverage in Mexico, it is necessary to optimize our resource allocation to improve the country’s breast cancer prevention policy.

Keywords: Cost-effectiveness. Breast cancer. Mammography.

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