Tests and scans for 'worried well'

Health tests and scans for the 'worried well' may do more harm than good, doctors and scientists have claimed.

In the last few years there has been a huge growth in new tests and the marketing of them to healthy people.

But a collaboration of Sense About Science, the Association of Clinical Biochemistry, the PHG Foundation and the Royal College of Pathologists says most tests were not designed for well people and are not researched or adequately regulated.

A report published by the groups calls for a national system to evaluate diagnostic tests along with a publicly accessible database to provide evidence of performance and usefulness.

Dr Andrew Green commented: "Nobody should arrange their own medical tests. If you don't have symptoms, then very few tests are worthwhile, and those that are can be had through your doctor.

"If you do have symptoms, you owe it to yourself to make sure the right tests are done, and properly interpreted."

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