You may have heard that The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) announced on November 16, that it is changing its guidelines for mammography and no longer recommends routine screening for women between the ages of 40 and 49.

This is one group’s recommendation and it has not been accepted nationwide by physicians. There is convincing evidence that yearly screening reduces breast cancer mortality. Limitations do exist with mammography, including false alarms and biopsies and these limitations are slightly greater in younger women. However, the limitations do not change the fact that mammography starting at age 40 saves lives.

Along with The American College of Radiology, the American Society of Breast Surgeons, the American Society of Breast Disease and the American Cancer Society, Saint Mary’s Health Care will continue to recommend yearly mammography for women 40 and older.

 
Jamie Caughran, MD

Medical Director of Saint Mary’s

Comprehensive Breast Center

Carole Gentry, RN, CNML

Manager of Breast Services

Saint Mary’s Health Care