Hershey, Pa. - A government medical panel has proposed new standards for mammogram screenings that are very different from what the American Cancer Society recommends.

The new recommendations released by the U.S Preventive Services Task Force recommends against routine screening for women in their 40's.

"I think these irresponsible recommendations are going to be responsible for more women dying from breast cancer," Dr. Susan Schetter of Hershey Medical Center said.

For women between 50 and 74, the task force recommends mammograms every other year. It also recommends against teaching self-breast examination.

Wendy Parmelee of Harrisburg says a mammogram caught her breast cancer early. She said the new recommendations are disturbing. "Had another year gone by who knows what treatment regimen I'd be in, but I don't think I would have had such a positive result," she said.

Parmelee said there were no lumps or bumps. "I could not feel it," she said. "It was not in a position where physicians could feel it, so my breast exam alone it would have gone undetected."

Some women said the new recommendations will cut back on what is an invasive procedure. The task force said it hopes to cut back on unnecessary surgeries and cancer scares.

Elfriede Prescott of Hershey said a mammogram detected her cancer, but she believes in the recommendations. "On a regular basis, if they push it back it every other year. I think it could be a good thing," she said.

The American Cancer Society announced it will stick to guidelines that recommend yearly mammograms starting at the age of 40 for women who remain in good health.

 

 Email To Friend