That’s the title of a July 28 article published in the National Post. This Canadian article examines scientific and political reasons for the current guidelines for early breast-cancer screening using mammography. The writer states that the risks of over-diagnosis from mammograms outweigh the benefits. The risks arise from several fronts. First, the overuse of mammography itself: in the US, an advisory board of doctors and scientists recommended that women who are not at abnormal risk of developing breast cancer start routine mammograms at age 50 instead of age 40. Second, that statistics show 1,900 women aged 39-49 would need a mammogram every year for 10 years to prevent one breast cancer death. 1,339 women aged 50-59 would need annual screening to save one life, and 377 women aged 60-69 would need an annual screening to save a life. Third, that diagnoses resulting from mammography often result in needless mastectomies and lumpectomies. Fourth, that political and economic reasons are behind the current status quo. If you read the article, you’ll read that at best the benefits are unclear: MD warns of breast cancer test risks
As an adjunct to mammography, consider thermography. Because thermography picks up underlying functional changes to the way blood flows in your breasts, you have a much earlier signal that something may be amiss. You have time to monitor changes, take earlier preventive measures, and hopefully avoid needing to consider more drastic measures.
If you’re reading this, great! Being informed helps you make good health choices for yourself and your loved ones.