For a population-based cancer screening programme to be worth implementing, Wilson and Jungner (1968) criteria require that the disease must satisfy which of the following conditions?

• A The condition must be common and have a high case fatality rate without treatment
• B There must be a latent or early symptomatic stage, an acceptable test, and an accepted treatment for the disease ✓
• C The screening test must have sensitivity >95% regardless of cost
• D Screening must reduce incidence, not just mortality

Explanation

The WHO Wilson and Jungner criteria (1968) require: the condition is an important health problem; there is an accepted treatment; facilities for diagnosis and treatment are available; there is a recognisable latent or early symptomatic stage; a suitable screening test exists; the test is acceptable; the natural history is adequately understood; there is an agreed policy on who to treat; the cost is economically balanced in relation to expenditure as a whole; and case-finding is a continuing process. Option B captures the three most critical practical criteria. High case fatality is not the standard—even chronic diseases qualify. Sensitivity >95% is not a fixed threshold.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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