Annual Breast Cancer Screenings Reduce Mortality Risk by 17%, Says New Study Researchers have found that annual breast cancer screenings can potentially reduce the risk of death by any cause by 17%, according to a recent study conducted by Epic Research. The study, which focused on women between the ages of 50 and 74, compared the mortality rates of those who received screenings every year versus every two years.
The findings challenge the screening guidelines released by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) in 2023, which recommended screenings every other year for women between the ages of 40 and 74. On the other hand, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends annual mammograms for women between the ages of 45 and 54, with the option for women between 40 and 44 to do the same. For women over 55, the ACS recommends mammograms every other year, unless they choose otherwise.
The study evaluated 25,512 women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer between January 2018 and August 2022 and were not considered high-risk prior to their diagnosis. The annual screening group showed a 17% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who were screened every two years.
The study also highlighted that certain groups, such as Black women, those over the age of 60, individuals residing in socially vulnerable areas, or living in rural settings, are more susceptible to all-cause mortality after a breast cancer diagnosis. These findings emphasize the importance of annual screenings, particularly for these vulnerable populations.
Dr. Nicole B. Saphier, Director of Breast Imaging at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, expressed support for the study’s findings and emphasized the significance of annual mammograms for early detection and increased chances of survival. However, she did note that the study does not account for lifestyle differences between women who receive annual versus biennial mammograms.
The study authors themselves acknowledged certain limitations, including the inability to account for lifestyle factors and the reasons why patients choose annual screenings over biennial ones. They suggest that women consult with their healthcare providers to determine the appropriate screening frequency based on individual risk factors, weighing the potential benefits and harms.
Breast cancer, apart from skin cancers, ranks as the most common type of cancer among women in the United States, accounting for approximately 30% of all new female cancer cases each year. The study’s findings provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals and patients alike, highlighting the potential benefits of annual breast cancer screenings and urging individuals to consider these screenings as part of their preventive care routine.
