Breast cancer screening in average-risk women: Towards personalized screening Editorial


Authors: Bitencourt, A. G. V.; Rossi Saccarelli, C.; Kuhl, C.; Morris, E. A.
Title: Breast cancer screening in average-risk women: Towards personalized screening
Abstract: Breast cancer screening is widely recognized for reducing breast cancer mortality. The objective in screening is to diagnose asymptomatic early stage disease, thereby improving treatment efficacy. Screening recommendations have been widely debated over the past years and controversies remain regarding the optimal screening frequency, age to start screening, and age to end screening. While there are no new trials, follow-up information of randomized controlled trials has become available. The American College of Physicians recently issued a new guidance statement on screening for breast cancer in average-risk women, with similar recommendations to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and to European guidelines. However, these guidelines differ from those ofother American specialty societies. The variations reflect differences in the organizations' values, the metrics used to evaluate screening results, and the differences in healthcare organization (individualized or state-organized healthcare). False-positive rates and overdiagnosis of biologically insignificant cancer are perceived as the most important potential harms associated with mammographic screening; however, there is limited evidence on their actual consequences. Most specialty societies agree that physicians should offer mammographic screening at age 40 years for average-risk women and discuss its benefits and potential harms to achieve a personalized screening strategy through a shared decision-making process.
Journal Title: British Journal of Radiology
Volume: 92
Issue: 1103
ISSN: 0007-1285
Publisher: British Institute of Radiology  
Date Published: 2019-01-01
Start Page: 20190660
Language: English
DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20190660
PUBMED: 31538501
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC6849689
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 1 November 2019 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Elizabeth A Morris
    341 Morris