[Analysis of the incidence of tumours subjected to screening in a local health authority in Vercelli (Italy), 2002-2005: preliminary data].

Population screening of selected tumours have been implemented only recently in the local health authority of Vercelli (northern Italy): screening of uterine tumours was implemented in the year 2000, and screening of breast and colon-rectal tumours in 2005. The objectives of this study were firstly, to implement a data collection and management process and secondly, to obtain incidence data of tumours for which screening activities are possible. The study analysed data of 2002-2005, readily available from hospital discharge abstract forms. The findings of this study constitute an important knowledge base that will be useful in the implementation of a program for the evaluation of the quality of screening programs.