Mammography in screening for breast cancer: a viewpoint

Controversy exists over the usefulness of mammographic screening for breast cancer. A discussion of the risk-benefit analysis and high risk women profile help the family physician in making a decision about who should be screened with mammography. Although earlier clinical trials show no benefit, and possible risks, of screening women under age 50, current techniques of mammography subject women to far less radiation and presumably far less risk. Based on this evidence, there is merit in screening women aged 40-49 with mammography every two to three years.