Annual mammograms may reduce risk of mastectomies for women in their 40s

A doctor checks mammogram images. Preliminary findings of a British study suggest annual mammograms may reduce the risk of mastectomies in women in their 40s. (Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)

Annual mammograms: Have you had yours lately? For women in their 40s, a new study suggests that annual mammograms may reduce the risk of having a mastectomy.

Preliminary findings of a British study of 971 women between 40 and 50 years old who had been diagnosed with breast cancer were presented Thursday at the annual Radiological Society of North America meeting in Chicago.

For those who had had a mammogram in the prior year, only 19% were treated with a mastectomy. However, 46% of the women who weren’t screened had a mastectomy, the study says. Here's a news release from the Radiological Society that summarizes the London Breast Cancer Institute study.

Mammograms for women in their 40s has stirred controversy over the past few years. This is what the the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends. And here's what the American Cancer Society advises.

Still confused? Have a discussion with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history. Then learn the basics about breast cancer and treatments at HealthKey.com.

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