Epstein listed criteria to consider when using a screening test to detect an oral cancer. The author is from the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Duarte, California.
Criteria to consider screening for an oral cancer:
(1) An early stage of cancer is detectable.
(2) There is a benefit from early detection.
(3) The prevalence of the disease is high AND/OR it is useful to assess a high-risk patient.
Factors that can affect a test's utility:
(1) technical nature of the test
(2) amount of training or experience required
(3) noninvasive vs invasive
(4) validated for the setting or population where it is being used
(5) frequency of false negative and false positive results
(6) frequency of use
(7) steps to be taken if test is positive or negative
(8) cost of performing the test (equipment, supplies, etc)
An additional issue may be liability for using or not performing the test.
