Breast screening: visual search and observer performance

An overview of the UK breast screening program is presented and the importance of observer performance to its success is shown. A conceptual model is presented which leads to the consideration of diagnostic errors in three classes. Appropriate training can help reduce the occurrence of these errors. Data are presented from a national self assessment program which aims to give radiologists insight into aspects of their performance. In particular, information on calcification detection and the benefits of double reading is considered as a means of improving cancer detection rates.