Breast Cancer Screening in Korean Women: Report of the National Cancer Screening Program in 2008

Purpose: The Korean National Cancer Screening Program began in 1999. To provide essential evidence related to breast cancer screening in Korean women, we analyzed data from the KNCSP in 2008. Methods: Using data obtained from the National Cancer Screening Information System, breast cancer screening participation rates were calculated. Recall rates were estimated with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The target population of breast cancer screening in 2008 included 3,706,062 women, 1,294,060 of whom utilized mammography as a screening tool (participation rate, 34.9%). Compared to the participation rate of women covered by the National Health Insurance Program (37.3%), women covered by the Medical Aid Program was lower (21.3%). The overall recall rate of breast cancer screening was 6.4% (95% CI, 6.39-6.47). Conclusion: According to our study, efforts to facilitate the participation and to reduce disparities in breast cancer screening among Korean women are needed. These results will provide essential data for evidence-based strategies in breast cancer control in Korea.