Extend Mammography Screening to Save Lives
Breast cancer screening through mammography has dramatically reduced mortality, halving the number of deaths among women who participate.However, this progress hasn’t reached older women. Currently, one in four breast cancer diagnoses occurs in women over 75, and crucially, these cancers are often discovered at a later, more advanced stage. This late diagnosis is the primary reason that over half of all breast cancer deaths occur in this age group.
new data from this yearS breast cancer report demonstrates a clear path to improvement: raising the age limit for routine mammography from 74 to 84 could reduce mortality by 31%. An analysis by the Institute for Health Administration confirms this would be a cost-effective intervention, well within acceptable limits set by the National Board of Health and Welfare.
Regular mammography more than doubles a woman’s chance of survival. Yet, mortality rates remain stagnant for women over 75, despite a life expectancy of nearly fifteen years for a 75-year-old. Currently, these women must rely on self-detection and then request a referral for screening. Later-stage diagnoses necessitate more aggressive treatment and carry a poorer prognosis.
Fortunately, advancements like artificial intelligence are already helping to streamline the screening process and reduce wait times. Earlier detection, facilitated by extended screening, would alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, reduce suffering, and improve the quality of life for women.
Importantly, older women themselves support continued screening. A recent Novus survey revealed that 84% of women aged 65-89 want to continue receiving mammography invitations.
while we await a recommendation from the National Board of Health to extend screening to age 84, regional authorities have the power to act now. With nearly 50 years of experience and established knowledge in mammography screening, we urge them to do so. Let’s ensure older women have access to this life-saving screening.
Susanne Dieroff
Chairman of the Breast Cancer Association
Britt Sandberg
Chairman Breast Cancer Association Amazona Stockholm
