Colorado Breast Cancer Survivor Not Sold On New Mammogram Guidelines

AURORA, Colo. (CBS4) - In a major change in guidelines, the American Cancer Society has recommended that women at average risk of breast cancer get their first mammogram at age 45.

That's five years later than previously recommended and the group's first revision in a dozen years. The new guidelines were published online in JAMA. They reflect changing attitudes about cancer screenings, much to the dismay of at least one Colorado cancer survivor.

Saundra Robinson has tackled more than 20 marathons and 10 half marathons, but her biggest accomplishment has been beating breast cancer. Robinson's cancer was found in 2006 thanks to a digital mammogram.

"Because of the digital mammography, we found it early," Robinson said.

As for starting mammograms at age 45 not 40, Robinson says not so fast.

"We've been 40 for a long time. Forty saved my life and it has saved lives of many women. It has found the cancer early," she said.

Dr. Christina Finlayson, Medical Director of the Breast Center at the University of Colorado Hospital, agrees.

"The earlier you start, the more cancers you do pick up," Finlayson said.

But she also said the earlier you start screening, the more false positives and unnecessary tests.

"And what can sometimes happen in that situation, a woman goes through that and says, 'I'm never getting a mammogram again,'" she said.

In another change, the American Cancer Society is now recommending mammograms every two years after age 55. And the society is no longer recommending annual breast exams by a doctor.

DR. DAVE HNIDA'S BLOG: When Should You Have A Mammogram? New Guidelines From The American Cancer Society

"Very good studies in many, many countries around the world have failed to find a benefit in a clinical breast exam," Finlayson said.

But breast cancer survivor Robinson urges women to think for themselves.

"You can't let this report hinder what you do about your health, " Robinson said.

Kathy Walsh is CBS4's Weekend Anchor and Health Specialist. She has been with CBS4 for more than 30 years. She is always open to story ideas. Follow Kathy on Twitter @WalshCBS4.