Expanding the evidence on cancer screening: the value of scientific, social and ethical perspectives.

Abstract

We propose an expanded approach to evidence for cancer screening policy and practice. First, we need to better understand why and how screening happens the way it does, sometimes at odds with evidence of benefits and harms. Second, we need to systematically investigate the ethics of cancer screening to illuminate moral concerns and expand the scope of screening research to address ethical dilemmas. An expanded approach will offer essential information to better support well reasoned judgements, and develop more accountable and less contested cancer screening policies.