sensitivity
Ability of a screening test to correctly identify individuals who have cancer (true positive rate).
Full Definition
Sensitivity, also known as the true positive rate, is a statistical measure of a screening test's ability to correctly identify individuals who actually have the disease being tested for. In cancer screening, sensitivity represents the proportion of people with cancer who test positive on the screening examination. A highly sensitive test will detect most cases of cancer, reducing the number of false negative results. However, sensitivity must be balanced against specificity, as tests with very high sensitivity may also produce more false positive results. The sensitivity of screening tests varies considerably; for example, mammography sensitivity ranges from 70-90% depending on factors such as breast density and cancer characteristics.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with specificity. Remember: sensitivity = how well the test catches disease when present; specificity = how well it avoids false alarms.
In Context
- "The sensitivity of fecal immunochemical testing for colorectal cancer detection is approximately 80%." — Screening program evaluation
- "Dense breast tissue can reduce mammography sensitivity, necessitating supplemental screening methods." — Clinical guideline document