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Screening

SKREEN-ing /ˈskriːnɪŋ/

nounC1GRETOEFLIELTS

formalmedical

The systematic examination of a group to detect an unrecognised disease or risk factor.

In medicine, it refers to tests or procedures performed on a large, asymptomatic population to identify individuals who may have a disease or condition, so that further diagnostic tests can be offered.

The story behind the word. The word 'screening' comes from the Old French 'escrener,' meaning 'to screen' or 'to protect.' Initially, it referred to separating or filtering things, like using a screen to sift flour. In a medical context, this idea of 'filtering' or 'sifting' through a population to find those who might have a hidden condition makes perfect sense. It's about 'protecting' health by catching potential issues early.

Word relationships

check-up: More general and informal, often includes screening tests.
assessment: A broader evaluation, not necessarily focused on disease detection in asymptomatic individuals.

Commonly confused with

diagnosis: Screening identifies potential problems in healthy people. Diagnosis confirms a specific disease in someone who has symptoms or a positive screening result.

Word family

screen (verb): To test or examine for the presence of a disease or condition.

Collocations

newborn screening
developmental screening
cancer screening
population screening

Example sentences

"Newborn screening for metabolic disorders can prevent serious health complications later in life." Newborn screening for metabolic disorders can prevent serious health complications later in life.
"Developmental screening helps identify children who might need early intervention services." Developmental screening helps identify children who might need early intervention services.
"The school offers vision and hearing screening for all students annually." The school offers vision and hearing screening for all students annually.

Memory hook

Think of a 'SCREEN' door that 'screens' out bugs, or a medical 'screening' that 'screens' out potential health problems. Filter for health

When not to use

Do not confuse 'screening' (looking for potential issues in healthy populations) with 'diagnosis' (confirming a disease in symptomatic individuals).

Fun facts

The Apgar score, used to assess newborns immediately after birth, is a form of rapid screening.
Universal newborn hearing screening is a common public health initiative to detect hearing loss early.