[Cancer screening for women is less frequently visited in regions with lower household income--analysis of data from health insurances in Bavaria].

AIM OF THE STUDY: Differences in health care in Germany have rarely been analysed. Recent research, however, indicates that subjects of the lower social class participate in cancer screening less frequently.

METHODS: Participation in screening for cervical cancer among women older than 20 years has been analysed using billing information of the KVB (Kassenärztlichen Vereinigung Bayern) for the period from 2002-2005. Women were assigned to one of the 96 Bavarian districts based on their postal code. The following variables were used: Participation rate in cervical cancer screening; age; average household income; gynaecologists per 10,000 women. Multivariate analyses were based on age-stratified linear regressions.

RESULTS: There are considerable regional differences in participation in screening for cancer among older women. Participation rates are lower in districts with lower average household income. The correlation between participation rates and average household income shows an almost linear dependence on the level of districts. This association could not be explained by the variable "gynaecologists per 10,000 women".

CONCLUSION: In order to provide social equality in health care, regional differences in cancer screening participation should be targeted. This is especially important in districts with lower average household incomes.