Provider and patient underestimation of harms of tests and treatments may lead to over treatment. This article presents seven domains of harm of tests and treatment which warrant comprehensive research: (1) physical impairment, (2) psychological distress, (3) social disruption, (4) disruption in connection to healthcare, (5) labeling, (6) financial impact, and (7) treatment burden. Research is especially important in vulnerable patient populations.

Seeking to identify the best strategies for accurately quantifying and monitoring overdiagnosis over time, this systematic review examined studies that measured overdiagnosis rates for nine common cancers. The authors concluded that ecological and cohort studies led by unbiased researchers show the most promise for monitoring overdiagnosis in cancer screening programs.