cancer detection rate
The number of cancers detected per 1,000 screening examinations performed.
Full Definition
A key performance indicator for screening programs, expressing the number of cancers identified per 1,000 screening examinations. This metric helps evaluate the effectiveness of screening protocols and compare performance across different programs or time periods. Cancer detection rates vary by screening modality, patient population, and whether the screening is initial or subsequent. Higher detection rates may indicate better sensitivity but must be balanced against false positive rates and resource utilization. Benchmark values exist for different screening programs to guide quality assurance efforts.
Usage
Usage note: Express as 'per 1,000 examinations' for clarity; avoid 'percentage' when referring to this metric.
In Context
- "The mammography program achieved a cancer detection rate of 4.2 per 1,000 examinations, exceeding national benchmarks." — Quality assurance report
- "First-round screening typically shows higher cancer detection rates than subsequent rounds due to prevalent disease." — Screening program evaluation