The simulation model for breast cancer screening was developed and the values for model parameters including cancer induction due to radiation were derived from the literature. The simulation model was validated by comparing the outcome data of the model with the data from three published screening studies of women with an increased hereditary breast cancer risk. A sensitivity analysis was used to estimate the error margins of the outcome data and to analyse the sensitivity of the simulation model to each parameter.
The model predicted 71 ± 4 % of the reported tumours. When excluding the excess number of incident tumours detected in the first screening round, the model predicted 85 ± 6 % of the tumours reported. The model was most sensitive to changes in the parameters related to lifetime breast cancer risk and sensitivity of mammography.
We conclude that the simulation model is suitable for the provision of accurate benefits’ and risks’ estimations necessary for the refinement of the screening guidelines for women at an increased risk of breast cancer.