Year: 2009 Author: Charlotte H Ahern, PhD Advisor: Yu Shen Committee Members: Marek Kimmel, J. Nathaniel Holland Thesis Title: Statistical Modelling in the Optimization of Breast Cancer Screening Schedules Abstract: Although screening for breast cancer is broadly utilized in the United States, the optimal screening strategies are unclear in populations of average- and high-risk. We search for optimal screening strategies using a comprehensive simulation-based approach and a theoretical approach, by modeling costs and benefits of screening programs. The proposed models incorporate unexplored components such as the combined utilization of mammography and clinical breast exam, the addition of magnetic resonance imaging, costs accrued beyond screening, and a nonstable disease model. The study results may be used to improve future breast cancer screening guidelines.