Mammogram Guidelines Questioned

New guidelines issued by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force concerning mammogram screening for women were posted in November, 2009. According to the task force doctor's should not recommend mammograms for most women until at least age 50 and they should only be performed every two years. Their studies showed that screening at the earlier age leads to false alarms and unnecessary biopsies.

The American Cancer Society challenged the opinion of the government task force and stand on their opinion that doctors should continue to recommend mammograms for women beginning at 40 years of age.

If I at my present age of sixty-six had followed the guidelines to have a mammogram every two years beginning at age 40 I would have allowed myself to be exposed to deadly radiation a total of 13 times. I believe that the radiation exposure creates a greater a risk, and may actually encourage cancer cells to develop.

The American Cancer Society claims to be dedicated to eliminating cancer and saving lives. Their opinion is that the benefits of mammograms outweigh the harm done in both age groups. The admission, that harm may be done should enough to discourage any woman from exposing their bodies to this procedure.

After reading these statements I wonder how many young women were diagnosed and had biopsies or breast surgery unnecessarily or how many women in their forties went through surgery and chemotherapy.

Since breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for American women, mammograms may be effective in early detection of cancer. However, the recommendation for testing should not be based primarily according to a person's age.

The panel also stated that breast self-examinations were not necessary, and that women should not be encouraged to perform them. If a woman's doctor is concerned about unusual breast lumps or other symptoms, a mammogram may be recommended. Preventive care should be in the hands of the individual, the patient may want to determine if there are other options. Many times people agree with unnecessary testing because they are coerced by fear, and uncertainty. Getting a second or third opinion is a good idea before agreeing with any medical procedures.

Men as well as women are subject to having breast cancer. If there is a family history of cancer that may lead to a higher risk the patient should be given the testing options and allowed to select further testing without intimidation.

I think it's appalling that for the past 20 years mammograms for women at age 40 have been being performed unnecessarily. This should make everyone question what other mistakes are being made.