Breast cancer surveillance--a cost-effective strategy.
The effectiveness of a surveillance program for breast cancer recurrence in extending survival is predicated on two assumptions: 1) most recurrences are detected at an early stage at surveillance visits; and 2) the early treatment of recurrence offers a better chance of cure or longer survival. However, the data suggest that neither of these two assumptions is correct, and that postoperative follow-up of patients with breast cancer is expensive and does not significantly extend survival.
Schapira
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H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa 33612.
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000191:economics* / Q000401:mortality; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006403:Hematologic Tests; D006801:Humans; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000191:economics* / Q000401:mortality; D010808:Physical Examination; D011159:Population Surveillance; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests