Please note this application is under active development. If you spot any errors or something isn't working, please contact us at evidence.service@wales.nhs.uk.
Systematic Review
Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of cancer related disability and mortality. Despite efforts to implement mammography screening programs, uptake rates vary widely due to socioeconomic factors and accessibility challenges. To improve participation, interventions targeting barriers faced by underserved groups are crucial for promoting equitable screening and early detection.
The meta-analysis of 44 randomized studies involving 161,141 individuals (of which 14,720 belonged to underserved groups) showed that, compared to usual care, interventions regarding BC screening were effective in increasing mammography uptake [pooled OR 1.55 (95%CI 1.39–1.73)], particularly, among underserved groups [pooled OR 1.81 (95%CI 1.43–2.28)]. Overall, the most effective were educational interventions. Among underserved groups, reminders, telephonic interventions, navigation services and cultural-sensitive approaches were highly effective.
Combining these strategies [educational interventions, reminders, telephonic interventions, navigation services and cultural-sensitive approaches] can simultaneously address multiple barriers, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the BC screening process and improved access to screening for underserved groups.