[Screening for prevention and early detection of cervical cancer in the German Democratic Republic-- an analysis (author's transl)].

The cytological mass screening to prevent invasive carcinomas by detection and therapy of intraepithelial neoplasia and to detect early stages of invasive carcinomas is the most important basis for cervical cancer control. An analysis of epidemiological effects caused by mass screening programs in two districts (Berlin, capital of the GDR; Rostock) demonstrates during the last 7 years a marked increase of detected ca in situ followed by a clear decrease, a decrease of morbidity of cervical cancer (49.4/100,000 :36.1/100,000 women) and an increase of earlier stages, especially stage Ia. The highest decrease of morbidity could be observed in women aged 40--49 years (111.6 : 61.0) followed by those aged 50--59 years (91.1 : 76.1). Preliminary results demonstrate the benefit of screening program and the practicability of organization form used in the capital Berlin. A further analysis demonstrates screening activities in the whole country. a continuous increase of cytological capacities in many districts is the remarkable result of the activities and gives the assurance for further success of the cytological screening program decided for the German Democratic Republic.