Self-Reported Opportunistic Screening Mammography in Austria – 2005 vs. 1995

Background: The prevalence of self-reported participation in opportunistic screening mammography in Austrian women aged 40-79 years in the year 2005 is reported and compared with the results of a similar investigation from 1995. Methods: In a representative populationbased cross-sectional study, 552 women were asked about their usage of opportunistic screening mammography (number and time interval). Results: Overall the prevalence of self-reported opportunistic breast cancer screening was 81.9% (95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 78.4-85.5). The highest prevalence was observed in the age group 60-69 years with 87.6% (95% CI: 81.5-92.2), the lowest prevalence in the age group 70-79 years with 69.6% (95% CI: 57.3-80.0). Compared with 1995, the screening prevalence showed significant increases in the total group as well as in the single age groups. Conclusion: Opportunistic screening mammography is well accepted in Austria, with an increasing trend of regular utilization.