Retrospective cohort study on women aged 70-74 attending breast cancer screening

Breast cancer screening is effective in reducing mortality from the disease. However, the sensitivity of mammography is not optimal, which limits the effectiveness of screening, particularly in younger women. In Italy, a one-year screening interval is recommended for all women aged 45-49, although it is likely that only women with dense breasts would benefit from such a short interval. For women aged 70-74, longer intervals may be more appropriate, in line with recent European recommendations. Italian regions are planning to expand the screening target population to include women aged 45-49 and 70-74.

The MISS project aims to identify the optimal screening interval for breast cancer by conducting a trial that randomizes women aged 45 to: a) a 1-year interval, b) a 2-year interval, and c) a tailored interval based on breast density. Additionally, the project will include a large cohort study involving women aged 70-74, which will collect data from screening programs and cancer registries to compare the outcomes of women screened at the recommended intervals with those who experience delays.