Money Matters, Simplified.
USPSTF breast cancer study questioned
by Jaspreet Virk - December 6, 2009 - comments
The WHO task force asserts that many times mammographies result in false positives. Even if the positives are true, they lead to unnecessary treatment like surgery, chemotherapy etc. for the detection of a tumor that poses little risk to women
New York, December 6 -- The debate over how often women should undergo mammogram tests seems to have gained momentum.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), an independent panel of experts in primary care and prevention, has updated its advice for screening mammograms, recommending that women between the ages 50 and 74 should go for mammograms once every two years in the absence of symptoms.
The previous advice was that women over the age of 40 should receive routine mammograms every second year.
Tests not always beneficial
Based on the improved scientific evidence, the agency has recommended against routine mammography among women younger than 50.
The reason behind such a recommendation is that benefits of regular screening are insufficient compared to the harm caused to the women. Also, it has been found out that most American women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer were above the age of 60.
The advice is consistent with the recommendation of World Health Organization (WHO).
The task force further asserts that many times mammographies result in false positives. Even if the positives are true, they lead to unnecessary treatment like surgery, chemotherapy etc for the detection of tumor that poses little risk to women.
The advice does not rule out the fact the screening is important for women in any age if they have a suspicious lump or any other symptoms that might be related to breast cancer.
Study draws strong opposition
The latest study by the task force has drawn strong opposition as it has contradicted the widely accepted guidelines issued by the American Cancer Society, which advises women to receive mammograms at the age of 40 and above.
Jan Fritz, director of cancer services at Yampa Valley Medical Center (YVMC), criticized the agency’s assertions. Fritz was quoted by Steamboat Today as saying, “I think that’s what’s confusing the public. It’s kind of … who do you believe?”
Dr. Rosanne Iversen, a cancer expert at YVMC added, “My own opinion is that women should get routine screening starting at age 40.”
YVMC mammography department diagnoses approximately 25 cases of breast cancer on a yearly basis and conducts up to seven mammograms every week.
Carole E. Mills, a breast cancer survivor, posted her views on fredericksburg.com saying, “I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 38--two years before the recommended screening at age 40. After finding a lump, I received my first mammogram. I recently celebrated my 59th birthday. I consider the past 20 years a bonus.”
Neil C. Saunders, husband of a breast cancer survivor, wrote on courierpress.com forum that early mammograms are still the way to go. He stated that his wife successfully fought breast cancer due to early detection through routine mammography.
What should women do?
The mammography controversy has only added to the confusion. So what should women do?
Women, regardless of their age, should consult their doctors on a regular basis to seek advice if they should receive mammograms.
They need to be constantly aware. Breast self examination is the best way to start.
If they notice a lump, they should immediately consult their doctor. A woman is at a greater risk of developing breast cancer if any of the family members has been earlier diagnosed with it.