Public health focus: mammography
Article Abstract:
The number of newly-diagnosed cases of breast cancer increased between 1980 and 1987, but the death rate remained stable. This may be a result of mammography, which can detect tumors before they become large enough to be detected by breast examination. Screening women at risk for breast cancer may be one way to reduce mortality. In fact, studies have shown that mammographic screening can reduce mortality as much as 39% in women over 50 years old. The benefit of mammographic screening in younger women has yet to be documented. Estimates of the cost-effectiveness of mammography in women over 50 vary, from $4,500 for each year of life saved to over $84,000. Mammography could be cost effective if more sensitive film is used and more women participate regularly. It is also important to develop a mechanism to refer women with an abnormal mammogram to the appropriate treatment program.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1992
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Effect of age, breast density, and family history on the sensitivity of first screening mammography
Article Abstract:
The sensitivity of mammography depends on the age of the woman and her family history but is independent of the density of her breasts. In a survey of 28,271 women who had a first mammogram, 238 eventually developed breast cancer. The sensitivity of a first mammogram was highest in women 50 years and older and dropped only slightly with the length of follow-up. Sensitivity was significantly lower in women under 50 especially in those with a family history of breast cancer and a long follow-up. Breast density had no effect on sensitivity.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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Surveillance of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers with magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, mammography, and clinical breast examination
Article Abstract:
The sensitivity and specificity of 4 methods of breast cancer surveillance (mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and CBE) in women with hereditary susceptibility to breast cancer due to a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation is compared. The results reveal that MRI is more sensitive for detecting breast cancers than mammography, ultrasound, or CBE.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2004
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