Have you heard the recent comments made by the chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society, Dr Otis Brawley? In an official statement recently released (mainly regarding breast cancer and prostate cancer) the cancer society stated that the “advantages of screening for some cancers have been overstated,” but also added that “there are advantages, especially in the case of breast, colon and cervical cancers.” This statement though already confusing was made more confusing by additional statements in the report. The society’s chief medical officer, Dr. Otis Brawley, also said that the organization “stands by its screening guidelines” and that “women are encouraged to continue getting mammograms.”
As a breast cancer survivor, I do not believe that the advantages of screening for breast cancer have been overstated. And I believe that the 1 in 8 women diagnosed with breast cancer each year would agree with me.
I will admit that research shows that there is some debate regarding which early cancers should be closely followed and remain untreated, which early cancers should be treated, how they should be treated and the effectiveness of the treatment. But, more importantly, research also shows that cancer deaths in general are decreasing. So my position is that if breast cancer screening can save one life (one woman – sister – mother – wife) then the advantages are not overstated.
What are your thoughts? How do you feel about the recent report?
Are The Advantages of Screening Mammograms Exaggerated?
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