Further evidence is required before a decision can be made about the potential benefits, harms and costs of screening for ovarian cancer. While awaiting the results of the current trials, demand for screening is likely to increase, and a strong national lead will be required.
The relatively low prevalence of ovarian cancer means that the positive predictive value of screening tests is low. Since the consequence of a false-positive result is a surgical procedure, consideration of the overall impact of ovarian cancer screening is important. The low prevalence also limits the potential cost-effectiveness of population screening.
Screening women who are at risk because of a strong family history may be more cost-effective but this has not been established. No RCTs are planned in this group, but a screening study has been established. This will provide some evaluation using intermediate outcomes of screening but may also increase demand for screening services.