Many of you may have seen the new recommendations by the U. S. Preventive Services Task Force concerning Mammogram and Self Breast Examination. Their conclusion is that women at low risk should not start routine mammograms until age 50, and then, only every other year. They have also recommended that women should not be taught self-breast examination.

“But I have always heard that yearly mammograms and self-breast examination aid in early detection and treatment!”

“What should I do?”

Both the American Cancer Society and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology are reviewing the study, and until more data is available, they are recommending no change in the present guidelines of yearly screening mammograms and monthly self-breast examination.

Breast Cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in the United States. Studies reveal that one in eight women will develop breast cancer. Early detection and treatment is important is successful treatment of all forms of cancer.

This is only one study and needs to be evaluated closely before any change is made in routine breast cancer screening. The Woman’s Clinic recommends that all women continue with monthly self-breast examinations and yearly mammograms.

For further information on the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology response to the study, go to http://www.acog.org/from_home/Misc/uspstfResponse.cfm

Remember, Early Detection and Treatment Saves Lives.