Breast Screening

Most Breast Cancer Deaths Occur in Unscreened Women

By Amy Orciari Herman

Nearly three quarters of deaths from breast cancer occur among women who've not undergone mammographic screening, according to a study in Cancer.

Researchers in Massachusetts examined the medical records of some 7300 women who were diagnosed with potentially curable (stages I to III) invasive breast cancer from 1990 through 1999 and followed them through 2007. During that time, there were roughly 600 proven breast cancer deaths — 71% of which occurred among unscreened women. Half of all breast cancer deaths occurred among those younger than 50.

The researchers conclude: "To maximize mortality reduction and life-years gained, initiation of regular screening before age 50 years should be encouraged.

NEJM
Physician's First Watch9/10/13