The purpose of screening is to identify people in an apparently healthy population who are at higher risk of a health problem or condition. This can enable early treatments or inter­ventions, and thereby reduce the incidence and/or mortality of the health problem or condition within the population.

There appears to be a growing trend in the WHO European Region towards more health checks and screening for noncommunicable diseases, yet a clear evidence base for effectiveness may be missing. Policy-makers, health professionals and the public may be unaware of the potential harm of screening, its cost and burden on the health system, and the need for strong quality assurance.

WHO has produced short guides to screening that describe the various aspects policy-makers and public health leaders should consider before starting, continuing or stopping a screening programme, and the operational, monitoring and evaluation aspects of implementation. WHO works to increase the effectiveness of screening programmes within the Region, maxi­mizing benefits and minimizing harm.

Principles and practice of screening for disease