OBJECTIVE: Reminder intervention has been shown to be an effective tool in enhancing mammography compliance. However, few studies examine the cost-effectiveness of this type of intervention. CAN*TROL, a computer modeling program developed by David Eddy has been used for economic assessment in cancer screening. The current study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of reminder intervention program using CAN*TROL.
METHOD: The scenario of mammography screening with and without reminder intervention was simulated using CAN*TROL. Historical data of mammography compliance as well as the cost information were collected and used in the modeling.
RESULTS: One percent of the female population aged 50-70 in the US from the year 2000 were simulated and projected for 10 years. The model showed that reminder intervention resulted in a 17% reduction of breast cancer mortality compared to 7% in the control group. The incremental cost of the 10-year mammography screening was $233.9 mil. for the intervention and $121.3 mil. for the control group. Cost per life year saved was $88,302 with the intervention as compared to $99,514 without the intervention. The overall incremental cost per life year gained was $78,744. Although many variables might affect the C/E ratio, the model showed that varying the mammography cost had the biggest influence. However, varying the discount rate, compliance rate, intervention cost, and diagnostic workup was shown to have minimal impact.
CONCLUSIONS: Our preliminary analysis showed reminder intervention appears to be a cost-effective life-saving tool in breast cancer prevention for women aged 50 to 70.
Learning Objectives: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of reminder intervention in enhancing mammography compliance
Keywords: Breast Cancer Screening, Mammography
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.