Doctors Are Speaking Out Against New Screening Guidelines

In a recent update, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended that women undergo mammograms every other year starting at age 40, continuing through age 74. Previously, the guideline suggested beginning screenings at age 50. However, Dr. Lori Alfonse, deputy physician in chief at the Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute, disagrees with aspects of these new guidelines.

In an article with Leigh Valley News, Dr. Alfonse argued that the new recommendations are based on statistical analyses rather than clinical experience. "This task force is not comprised of anybody that's actually involved with direct breast care," she asserted.

At the Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute, the medical team advises that women at average risk start annual mammograms at age 40. "The yearly mammograms allow continuity, allow our fellowship-trained imagers to take a look at your picture and compare it kind of in an apples-to-apples fashion from last year to this year, and assess subtle changes when something could be small," she explained.

Emphasizing the critical nature of early detection, Dr. Alfonse stated, "Breast cancer is most curable and most treatable when found early." She also recommended more frequent screenings for individuals with a family history of breast cancer or other high-risk factors.

Highlighting a troubling trend, Dr. Alfonse noted an increase in breast cancer cases among younger women. "I saw five women under the age of 40 in a four-week time period that had palpable breast masses that turned out to be malignant, with no family history and no genetic component," she said.

Dr. Alfonse attributes a significant portion of breast cancer cases to environmental factors, estimating that 85% of cases may be environmentally induced.

In addition to professional screenings, Dr. Alfonse stressed the importance of self-examinations. "Women know their own bodies and need to stay vigilant in looking for any changes," she advised. She urged women to thoroughly examine all areas of their breast tissue, from the clavicle down to where the bra hits, and from the chest bone to the armpit area.

Dr. Alfonse concluded with a call to action for women to seek medical attention if they notice any abnormalities, regardless of how minor they may seem. "If anyone finds something on their body out of the ordinary, they should get it checked by a primary care doctor," she urged.

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