Mammograms save lives of women
As president of the Northwest Suburban Regional Leadership Board of the American Cancer Society, I would like respond to an article that appeared in the Daily Herald on March 12, "Experts say U.S. doctors over testing, over treating."
While the article suggests doctors are practicing defensive medicine and over treating patients, I would like to reiterate that there are advantages to cancer screening, especially in the case of breast, colon and cervical cancers.
The American Cancer Society continues to recommend annual screening using mammography and clinical breast examination for all women beginning at age 40. Like the guidelines, the society's panel found convincing evidence that mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality in women ages 40-74, with age-specific benefits varying depending on the results of individual trials. Both organizations agree that mammography has limitations - some women who are screened will have false alarms and might receive unnecessary treatment while other women's cancers may be missed. And, a women's age affects these limitations which are somewhat greater in a women's forties compared to older women. Surveys of women show they place high value on detecting breast cancer early.
However, the limitations do not change the fact that breast cancer screening using mammography starting at age 40 saves lives. The American Cancer Society remains committed to finding better tests, and currently are funding a large study to improve the accuracy of mammography The important message is this: mammograms save lives and women should continue get them.
Dr. Daniel R. Conway
F.A.C.S. President, Northwest Suburban Regional Leadership Board American Cancer Society
Barrington