[Effectiveness of gynecologic preventive examinations--perspectives].

Genital cancer and breast cancer cases were compiled from the data base of the Swiss working group of the Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics. The total number of 390,000 cases was divided in two three-year periods (1983-1985 and 1986-1988) and then compared. With the exception of cervical cancer cases, which showed a significant increase of Stage 0/CIN III and a significant decrease of the more advanced stages, we noted a more or less unchanged distribution of the other cancer stages in respect of the manifestations. Screening methods allowing early diagnosis are still not used with appropriate technique and frequency, especially in the postmenopausal age.