Home»New study changes recommendations for annual mammogram screenings
New study changes recommendations for annual mammogram screenings
Page Last Updated: Wednesday November 18, 2009 9:07am PST
A controversial new study suggests women under the age of 50, who are not at high risk of breast cancer, do not need mammograms. |
A controversial new study suggests women under the age of 50, who are not at high risk of breast cancer, do not need mammograms.
The new report comes from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, a government-sponsored expert panel that evaluates preventative tests.
The group's recommendations carry weight with private insurers, medical organizations, and government-run programs like Medicare. This particular recommendation is also causing quite an uproar among breast cancer survivors, advocacy groups, and some doctors.
"I have two daughters ages 30 and 32," said breast cancer survivor and Reno resident Susan Smith. "At the moment, because of my history with breast cancer, they get mammograms and insurance covers it. I saw this as the first step to pulling that benefit away from them."
The study also suggests that teaching women how to conduct self breast exams is not necessary. Breast cancer advocacy group Susan G. Komen and the American Cancer Society say they will continue to recommend mammograms annually for women 40 and older.
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Home»New study changes recommendations for annual mammogram screenings
