CU Study Renews Debate Over Mammograms

AURORA, Colo. (CBS4) - A study from the University of Colorado has renewed the debate over mammography and breast cancer screening.

In 2009 a government task force recommended women not get a regular mammogram until they turn 50. Researchers at CU found a significant drop in 40-year-olds getting mammograms just 9 months after that guideline was issued. That has doctors worried.

"My concern about these findings is that if women in the 49-year-old group are not getting an annual screening mammography, then the only way their breast cancer would be detected is once it's large enough to be felt," Dr. Lara Hardesty from CU Hospital said. "The earlier we find breast cancer, the more likely it is to be treatable."

It's important to note the American Cancer Society has never changed its guidelines. It still recommends women start getting mammograms every year starting at age 40.