New Study Shows Mammograms Not As Effective For Early Detection

New Norwegian Study has shown that mammogram screening is not as effective as once thought. We have been told for years that annual mammograms, especially in women over the age of 50, were essential in the reduction of breast cancer. And although early detection is still the key to a successful recovery from breast cancer, the new study shows that mammograms only reduced the risk of death by 10 percent.

40,075 women took part in the study guided by Mette Kalager, M.D. and several of her colleagues. The study offered mammograms every 2 years from 1996 through 2005. The participants that were screened, death were only reduced by 7.2 per 100.000 as opposed to earlier studies showing a reduction of 28 percent. Of the participant not screened, death was reduced by 4.8 per 100,000 which is also a dramatic difference from earlier studies showing 18 percent reduction.

Although the study of mammograms shows a significant reduction in the percentage of deaths, many experts agree that the study outcome largely depends on who conducts the study. Experts from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark recently conducted a study whose results suggested that there were zero benefits from having a mammogram.

Dr. Colin T Campbell, nutrition professor at Cornell University stated that breast cancer can be prevented. Following a healthy lifestyle can be as important as the prevention of breast cancer.

It is also recommended by the USPSTFA that mammograms should start at 50 as opposed to earlier recommendations of 40. This is due to many inconclusive screenings in younger women resulting in unnecessary treatments that can cause the patients physical and mental damage.

Even though many studies are showing lower percentages, mammograms still are considered by the medical community the best for early detection of breast cancer.