Breast Cancer Network of Strength Statement on New Mammography Guidelines

Chicago, November 17, 2009 – In response to new guidelines about screening mammography released by The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), Breast Cancer Network of Strength® maintains its current recommendation that women begin screening at age 40.

USPSTF analysis of various mammography screening schedules suggests that biennial (every two years) screening of average risk women between the ages of 50 and 74 achieves most of the benefits of annual screening, but with less harm. The study appears in the November 17, 2009, Annals of Internal Medicine. “We know that earlier diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer leads to better outcomes,” said Breast Cancer Network of Strength President and CEO Margaret C. Kirk.

“As an organization that hears from tens of thousands of women through our 24/7 YourShoes™ support center, we would be disappointed if this new recommendation became yet another barrier that women will have to overcome to get the care they need.

“We will continue encouraging people to be proactive and empowered to discuss their risks of developing breast cancer, the risks and benefits of screening, and what is best for them with their health care team,” added Kirk.

Breast Cancer Network of Strength recommends that screening should occur every 1 to 2 years for women 40 to 49 years of age and annually for those 50 to 69. Women—and men—of any age who have unusual changes in their breasts (e.g., lump, dimpling, skin irritation, and nipple discharge) should consult a health care provider and together consider having a diagnostic mammogram.

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For a closer look at Network of Strength’s “Screening Mammography” position paper, please visit: http://www.networkofstrength.org/about/positions/mammography.pdf

About Breast Cancer Network of Strength

Breast Cancer Network of Strength® (formerly known as Y-ME) is the oldest national breast cancer organization and ensures, through information, empowerment and peer support, that no one faces breast cancer alone. Network of Strength provides immediate emotional relief to anyone affected by breast cancer through the YourShoes™ 24/7 Breast Cancer Support Center. YourShoes is the country’s only 24-hour toll-free breast cancer hotline staffed exclusively by breast cancer survivors who are trained peer counselors. The YourShoes Support Center provides real-time interpretation in 150 languages. Other services include A Day for You™, an outreach program for the medically underserved, breast health awareness workshops, free wig and prosthesis banks for women with limited resources and support groups. Network of Strength Advocacy™ works to increase breast cancer research funding, support breast cancer related clinical studies and ensure quality health care for all.

For more information about Breast Cancer Network of Strength, visit www.networkofstrength.org. Peer counselors can be emailed or contacted at 1-800-221-2141.

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Media Contact: Christina Koenig, 312.294.8534, ckoenig@networkofstrength.org

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