The goal of this study was to investigate the practicability and effectiveness of a systematic screening for renal cell carcinoma by ultrasound in the course of the established German Health Ministry screening programs.
Methods: In two centers (Mainz and Wuppertal) a screening program for renal cell carcinoma for all citizens (age > 40 years) was established. The screening was divided into two phases (time period 1 year): (1) All citizens over 40 years could attend voluntarily a cost-free ultrasound investigation. (2) A follow-up investigation for the entire screening population was provided.
Results: Ten thousand volunteers attended the screening program. Mean age was 60 years. Thirteen renal cell carcinomas were detected. The incidence of other findings was 15%; none of those required further treatment.
Conclusion: Systematic screening for renal cell carcinoma by ultrasound is cost-effective and showed high acceptance and practicability in a German population. The rate of detection of renal cell carcinoma was higher than initially statistically calculated.