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Mammography benefits overestimated

A review of randomised trials on cancer screening finds that mammographic screening may not reduce breast cancer mortality as expected. The study suggests that the benefits of mammography screening are likely to have been overestimated due to an unconventional statistical method used in earlier trials.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateJul 7, 2015

US women's awareness of breast density varies

A Mayo Clinic study found that US women's awareness of breast density varies significantly by race, ethnicity, household income, education level, and healthcare experiences. More than half of women reported having heard of breast density, but only 53% knew it was associated with cancer risk.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 2, 2015

Medicare-backed breast cancer screenings skyrocket, but do patients benefit?

A study by Yale University researchers found that Medicare spending on breast cancer screening increased significantly between 2001 and 2009, despite no corresponding decrease in new breast cancer cases. The use of digital mammography technology, which is more expensive than standard film technology, contributed to the increase.

SourceYale University·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 1, 2014

Prevention incentives

A private South African health plan increased patient use of preventive care services like mammograms and influenza vaccines through a novel retail incentive program. The program offered discounts on retail goods and travel for participants who used preventive services, resulting in a 5% increase in uptake.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateJun 27, 2014

New imaging technology

Researchers have developed a new X-ray phase-contrast mammography technique that provides high-contrast images of breast tissue. This technique helps distinguish between different types of microcalcifications and can aid in assigning them to malignant lesions, enabling non-invasive detection of premalignant lesions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 15, 2014

The mammography dilemma

A comprehensive review suggests that mammography screening benefits are often exaggerated while harms are understated. The study's findings emphasize the need for individualized approach to breast cancer screening based on clinical factors and personal preferences.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·DateApr 1, 2014

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 4, 2014

The American College of Physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have released an updated adult immunization schedule for 2014. Key changes include the removal of health care worker vaccination as an indication and updated recommendations for certain adults at increased risk for Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) i...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 3, 2014

Despite new recommendations, women in 40s continue to get routine mammograms at same rate

Despite new recommendations, women in their 40s continue to get routine breast cancer screenings at the same rate as before, with insurance coverage being a key reason for persistence. The study's findings highlight the ongoing challenges in changing behavior and the influence of societal factors on individual decisions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2013