Helsescreeninger

Helsescreeninger, or health screenings, are preventive health services designed to detect disease or risk factors in people who do not yet have symptoms. The goal is to identify conditions early when treatment is more effective and to reduce illness and death across the population. Screening programs are typically guided by evidence that the benefits outweigh potential harms, and they are organized to some extent by health systems or public health authorities.

Common forms include cancer screenings (such as mammography for breast cancer, cervical screening with Pap test or HPV testing, and colorectal cancer screening using stool tests or colonoscopy), assessment of cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose), and infectious disease screening (for HIV, hepatitis B and C). Newborn screening for metabolic and other conditions is routine in many countries. Screening modalities and target age groups vary by country and guideline.

In practice, eligible individuals may receive invitations or be offered screening during routine care. If a test result is abnormal, a diagnostic follow-up is performed to confirm the condition, and treatment or preventive measures are started as appropriate. Screening programs typically include quality assurance, counseling, and monitoring to ensure safety and equity of access.

Benefits of screening can include reduced mortality and earlier intervention, while risks include false positives or negatives, overdiagnosis, anxiety, and unnecessary procedures. The net value depends on the specific test, the population, and the availability of effective follow-up care. Debates continue about optimal screening intervals, age ranges, and resource allocation, underscoring the need for informed choice and transparent guidelines.