There is no question more women than ever before are surviving breast cancer. This is happening because of early screening and better and more aggressive treatment. So I was absolutely shocked today to hear that the United States Preventive Services Task Force (a committee appointed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) is now recommending that women do not get regular mammograms until their fifties and even then limit screening to every other year. In addition they are suggesting that breast self exams not be taught. ARE THEY CRAZY?
There is no way to completely express my feelings about this. I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at the age of 44, and the tumor was discovered through self breast exam and confirmed through a mammogram. This was only 18 months since a previous mammogram that was negative. My story is not unique.
I am wondering if the members of the Preventive Services Task Force have been living in a cave for the past decade. We have come so far. We can predict breast cancer through genetic screening. We have digital imaging along with mammograms to help detect tumors earlier. Efforts to raise breast cancer awareness and research funds is amazing. What on earth is this group thinking? It all sounds so backwards, especially now that we are seeing some progress on health care reform.
This is an assault against women. There is no other way to describe it. Although breast cancer strikes men as well, breast cancer is identified as a woman’s disease and these guidelines are targeted at women’s health.
I am angry and I hope you are too. I will be contacting my representatives and I intend to be relentless.
Kathy-Ellen
I think that last suggestion is the important one--make sure Congress hears from you that this recommendation should not be implemented.