Breast Cancer Care: Statement on research to be published in the BMJ on the overdiagnosis in publically organised mammography screening programmes.
Emma Pennery, Clinical Director at Breast Cancer Care, said:
“Until it is possible to accurately determine the progression of cancers found through mammograms, screening remains an effective option for detecting breast cancers as soon as possible.
“As this review acknowledges this could lead to overtreatment in a percentage of cases. However, without screening women would face the prospect of having to wait for a visible symptom of cancer, such as a lump, to become apparent before treatment could start.
“We know that early detection of breast cancer may lead to simpler, more effective outcomes and would urge women not to be put off breast screening by this report and to continue to accept regular invitations to screening. Those beyond the programme’s age range are also entitled to request regular mammograms.”
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