Since 1990, mammography screening starting at age 40 has lowered the death rate from advanced breast cancer by 30% in the US. Early detection has also allowed women the option of less radical/invasive treatments, which has helped to improve the quality of life of those women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Yet, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently announced that it was changing its guidelines for mammography, We strongly disagree with their recommendations. In agreement with the American Cancer Society as well as numerous additional organizations, Montclair Breast Center continues to recommend a yearly screening mammography and clinical breast exam beginning at age 40 for the average risk patient. For higher risk women, it is recommended that this screening starts earlier. Every year we see women in their 30’s or 40’s whose lives are saved because they came in for a mammography.
Feb 22, 2010 at 11:23 AM Thanks. I appreciate the information.