Aims: The potential of dedicated Breast-CT is evaluated by simulating its impact onto the performance of the German breast cancer screening program. Attendance rates, cancer detection and economic implications are quantified.
Methods: Based on a prospective health technology assessment approach, we simulated screening in different scenarios.
Results: In the simulation, attendance rates increase from 54 to up to 72% due to reduced pain. Breast cancers will be detected earlier while nodal positives and distant recurrences decrease. Assuming no additional cost, cost savings of up to €55 million in one screening period are computed.
Conclusion: The simulation indicates that earlier cancer detection, fewer unnecessary biopsies and less pain are potential benefits of Breast-CT resulting in cost savings and higher attendance.
Keywords: breast cancer; computed tomography; health economics; health technology assessment; mammography screening; simulation.