SAN MARINO – The mammographic screening of the Institute for Social Security (ISS) continues on an annual basis and without changes to the current program. The Institute has started work to prepare a scientific observational study on the San Marino model of early diagnosis of breast cancer, based on annual mammograms and the use of tomosynthesis.
The study protocol, expected to last at least five years, is currently being drawn up and will be submitted to the San Marino Bioethics Committee in 2027 for relevant assessments. Only after this step can the implementation phase of the research begin. In the meantime, exams will continue as scheduled.
The project involves the Directorate of Health and Socio-Health Activities, the Breast Diagnostics Unit and the Epidemiological Observatory, with the contribution of the Dr. Andrea Gualtieri for data collection through the Cancer Registry and statistical and epidemiological analyses.
“The in-depth process has already begun and in recent weeks some meetings have taken place to define the approach of the study and the elements that will have to be evaluated,” he explains Antonio Battistinihead of the Breast Diagnostics Unit of the ISS. The objective, he adds, is to prepare “a methodologically rigorous protocol”, supported by accurate data collection and adequate statistical and epidemiological support.
The Health Directorate reiterates that the initiative does not lead to a reduction in exams. “It is important to clarify that there are no cuts to screening nor is there a goal to reduce the number of mammograms,” he underlines Alessandro Bertolinidirector of Health and Social-Health Activities of the ISS.
The study will serve to delve deeper into the characteristics and results of the San Marino programme, providing further scientific elements for future evaluations. The activity is part of the path to strengthen breast medicine started by the new Executive Committee, which also includes the establishment of the Breast Unit and the consolidation of prevention, diagnosis, treatment and patient follow-up paths.
