Cancer Screening Controversy
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Updated: November 10, 2009
Robin Guadagnini was diagnosed with breast cancer after having a mammogram. "They discovered a lump, it was cancer, but it was small and had not invaded any lymph nodes."
She credits early detection with saving her life.
But in a recently published study, researchers indicate breast and prostate cancer screenings may not be as beneficial as we think.
And a subsequent article by the New York Times says the American Cancer Society may be altering it's stance on screenings because of the study.
The American Cancer Society released a statement Thursday in response to the article.
It did not directly address whether or not it is changing it's position on screenings, but did say while the tests are not perfect, they do save lives.
Dr. Steven Harms, an expert in breast cancer screenings, has several issues with the Times article.
"Part of the confusion is that breast cancer and prostate cancer are two different types of cancer and they're detected two different ways."
Harms says doctors are well aware prostate screenings can be unreliable.
"In terms of mammogram screening for breast cancer it's solid as can be and the American Cancer Society has long had guidelines for use of mammograms."
The doctor says people need to be careful when interpreting the study and the article, and they should continue screenings.
For Robin, a seven year survivor, a mammogram had countless benefits, and she urges others to be proactive about their health.
