With an increasing number of studies revealing the benefits of digital mammography and other screening practices, it comes as a surprise that a government panel has suggested certain female demographics forego radiology screening for breast cancer.
According to a HealthLeaders Media article, radiology groups have found themselves at odds with the US Preventative Services Task Force, which has recommended:
- Women over age 74 stop all breast cancer screening
- Women ages 50-70 have screenings every other year
- Women ages 40-49 forego annual screening mammograms
The group based its recommendations on findings that radiology screening for breast cancer lacks evidence of clinical benefit. In addition, the group has concluded that breast self-examination “does not reduce breast cancer mortality,” and therefore is advising against teaching self-examination.
But as the HealthLeaders Media article notes, radiology groups such as the Access to Medical Imaging Coalition and American College of Radiology are fighting back.
According to these radiology groups, the recommendations would put millions at risk and lead to breast cancer deaths that would be avoidable with digital mammography and other screening.
Radiology groups maintain the radiology screening recommendations are an attempt to reduce costs. In fact, implementation of the recommendations would result in millions of dollars of billable test not being performed.
Tell us: Where do you side on this issue?
For all the latest radiology and medical imaging technology news, subscribe now to the Medical Imaging Talk blog via RSS feed or email. Or follow us on Twitter today.
Related posts:
Follow Us On Twitter
