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Canadian Study: Screening Mammograms Do Not Cut Breast Cancer Deaths
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A study published today in the journal BMJ says annual screening mammograms in women aged 40-59 do not reduce deaths from breast cancer any better than a physical examination or usual care.
Sandhya Pruthi, M.D., a consultant in the breast clinic at Mayo Clinic Cancer Center says one limitation of the study is that it was conducted at a time when film screen mammography was the standard. “We’re now using digital mammography which has much better detection and sensitivity in finding cancers early.” she says.
Dr. Pruthi acknowledges that routine mammography screening is a controversial issue with no current consensus among groups within the medical community, “The American Cancer Society and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommend that we continue screening women in their 40s yearly,” Dr. Pruthi says. “The United States Preventive Services Task Force has published data recommending routine screening beginning at age 50.”
Dr. Pruthi recommends that women take an individualized approach where they talk to their doctors and weigh the risks and benefits of screening taking into account their health, family history and their personal preferences.
Mayo Clinic mammogram guidelines.
Journalists Sound bites with Dr. Pruthi and b-roll of patient having mammogram are available in the downloads.
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