Importance of Screening in Public Health

According to the University of Washington, screening is an important element of public health practice. The purpose of screening is to use highly sensitive and specific tests to detect disease in individuals, especially members of at-risk populations, who appear healthy.

Prevention

• According to Mary-Jane Schneider, author of "Introduction to Public Health," screening is a form of secondary prevention in diseases where little is known about the cause. Screening is also an important measure in diseases where there is no primary prevention such as hereditary disorders.

Early Detection

• Screening makes early detection of disease more likely. Early detection enables individuals who test positive for an illness to receive timely and appropriate medical treatment.

Quality of Life

• Early detection of a disease often results in improved quality of life. In some cases, early detection and treatment increases the odds of being cured. In those instances where there is no cure, early treatment of the disease can result in a less severe illness and fewer complications.

Types

• Types of public health screening known to make a difference include screenings for breast, cervical, colon or skin cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, high cholesterol, tuberculosis, diabetes and genetic disorders in newborns.