[The role of epidemiological quality parameters in a mammography screening programme].

In the recently established mammography screening programme, for the first time in Germany an extensive data collection for prompt quantification of specified quality parameters will be intrinsic to an early detection programme. Epidemiological parameters taken from the European Guidelines are central. This article outlines how epidemiology is involved in quality assurance of cancer screening and why epidemiological quality indicators will be quantified. The reasons for focussing on those parameters, on which the European Guidelines and now the German programme are based, and their significance in the long-term effectiveness of this programme are explained.