Deborah Ballard, M.D. response to recent recommendations on screening mammography

As many are aware, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued a statement in the Nov. 17, 2009, Annals of Internal Medicine recommending against routine screening mammography for women 40 to 49 years old. The task force also recommended that women ages 50 to 74 have a mammogram every two years.

The American Cancer Society still recommends an annual mammogram for women beginning at age 40.

While the USPSTF recommendation has caused much controversy and discussion in the media, it is important to be aware that there are a number of organizations that do not agree with the new USPSTF guidelines and that are advocating for more information and further study using data derived from modern mammography techniques before altering recommendations for mammography screening.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women ages 40 to 49, and mammography remains the single best method for detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages.

As such, the Norton Cancer Institute Prevention & Early Detection Program will continue to recommend mammography screening in accordance with guidelines set forth by the American Cancer Society. It is, however, important for women to discuss their individual risk for breast cancer with their health care provider. USPSTF recommendations are based on large population studies and may not be appropriate for all women. For many women, annual screening remains an appropriate strategy.

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News & Politics

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• cancer
• mammogram
• breast
• prevention
• mammography