March 18, 2013

Mammograms may actually increase breast cancer risk in some women

A recent study has concluded that in some women, the radiation from mammography may increase the risk of breast cancer. COMMENT: this study, and another one from the National Cancer Institute today suggest that mammography scheduling needs to be individualized. If these recent studies can be confirmed, it is possible that most women would be better off getting mammograms every other year, instead of yearly. The decision to start at age 40 or 50 needs to be individualized.

Radiation may up breast cancer risk in some women – USATODAY.com