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cindylou

Confused about mammograms. PLease help. Ive heard unnecessary mammograms are harmful, and there's conflicting reports on whether to get them at age 40, or 50 ... I dont seem to be at risk based on my family history. Is this somethign I should go ahead and begin ... now that im 40???

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As breast cancer imaging experts we fully support the American Cancer Society, and many other organizations, which advise annual screening mammograms starting at 40. Scientifically conducted clinical trials have proven decreased breast cancer mortality by mammograms, including for women in their 40s. In addition, early detection by mammography gives women more treatment options with reduced surgery, better cosmetic outcomes, and often eliminating the need for harsh chemotherapy. Your confusion is probably the result of the recent report by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. This group used a computer model with outdated information – not the actual beneficial results seen in studies worldwide. No new research was conducted and no breast cancer experts were involved. This is why most physicians in the field stand firm in their recommendations in the best interest of women's health. As far as the lack of any family history of breast cancer: 75-80% of women with breast cancer have no family history. That’s why all women over 40 should be screened annually. The risks of screening mammography are minimal. About 10% of women get called back for a few additional views or an ultrasound – additional steps which then prove that everything is fine. If a biopsy were to be needed, it’s generally only a needle biopsy today, not surgery. Most biopsies are benign (not cancer). Radiation used for mammography is very low dose, and there is no evidence that this level of exposure causes harm. The amount of radiation is similar to the amount from an airplane flight of a few hours due to the thinner atmosphere – not something we typically worry about. Breast cancer mortality rates in the U.S. have dropped about 30% since widespread screening mammography began. Let’s continue this encouraging trend. Get your mammogram now that you’re 40, and continue them annually. Here are some facts about screening mammography. Please visit us at https://www.charlotteradiology.com/mammographyfacts.php for more detailed information. • Screening Mammography has reduced the mortality rate by 30% since 1990. • Screening Mammography in women ages 40-49 has reduced the mortality rate by at least 25%, according to many international studies. • 75-80% of women ages 40-49 with breast cancer have NO family history. • Breast Cancers detected in women under 50 are often the more aggressive cancers. • The two biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and growing older. • Mammography is a low-cost and safe tool for breast cancer screening, with the amount of radiation exposure comparable to flying across the country. Thank you for your question!