Annual versus Less Frequent Mammographic Surveillance in Older Women with Breast Cancer
Study Overview
This study, known as Mammo-50, examined whether having mammograms less often than once a year is just as effective for breast cancer survival in women aged 50 and older.
Key Methods
The trial involved 5,235 women across 114 hospitals in the UK. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either annual mammograms or mammograms every two or three years, based on their surgery type. The study focused on breast cancer-specific survival and cost-effectiveness.
Important Findings
- After an average follow-up of 5.7 years, the survival rates between the two groups were very similar:
- Annual mammogram group: 98.1% survival
- Less frequent mammogram group: 98.3% survival
- Both groups showed similar recurrence-free intervals and overall survival rates.
- Most breast cancer events were detected through emergency visits rather than routine screenings.
Conclusion
For women aged 50 and older, having mammograms less frequently is as safe and effective as annual screenings, making it a viable option for this age group.
Practical Solutions and Value
This study supports the idea that less frequent mammograms can be beneficial, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving patient convenience without compromising safety.
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