Breast cancer is the most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths in women in Europe, and demographic trends indicate a continuing increase in this substantial public health problem. Systematic early detection through screening, effective diagnostic pathways and optimal treatment have the ability to substantially lower current breast cancer mortality rates and reduce the burden of this disease in the population. This is the fourth edition of these guidelines which contains information on recommended standards and procedures for breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, including chapters on multi-disciplinary aspects of quality assurance, data collection and monitoring, effective communication of information, requirements of a specialist unit, and a certification protocol.

The benefits of a screening programme for breast cancer are early detection and the subsequent reduction of mortality. The potential disadvantages are unnecessary anxiety, inappropriate economic cost and the use of ionising radiation. To ensure that the benefits outweigh the disadvantages the whole screening system needs to be completely quality assured. These European guidelines are based on the experience gained through national screening programmes. It contains information that can be applied at all levels and improvements can be achieved by following the technical advice. This third edition has been revised in the light of further experience over the past four years.