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. 2016 Oct;5(10):3018-3020.
doi: 10.1002/cam4.859. Epub 2016 Sep 28.

Screening mammography: sparing the emperor's blushes

Saroj Niraula  1
Affiliations

Screening mammography: sparing the emperor's blushes

Saroj Niraula. Cancer Med. 2016 Oct.

Abstract

Differing interpretations about evidence on benefits and harms of screening mammography has led to conflicting recommendations among different jurisdictions that range from intensive screening starting at age 40 to no screening at all. Despite broad attention of scientific and nonscientific media, evidence suggests substantial discrepancy between real and perceived benefits of screening mammography among women. In this commentary, underlying concept of mammographic screening, limitations in primary evidence, results from secondary evidence, and existing misunderstandings are underscored with a critical gaze at available information.

Keywords: Breast cancer; mammography; overdiagnosis; overtreatment; screening.

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