Red Alert: Video Propagates Deception – Mammograms Can Lower Death Rates from Breast Cancer, Misinformation Unveiled
In the ongoing debate about breast cancer screening, one method has stood out as a key tool in reducing mortality rates: mammography. This diagnostic test, which uses low-dose X-rays to acquire two images or projections per breast, has been instrumental in achieving early diagnoses and improving treatment outcomes.
Recent improvements in mammography technology, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), artificial intelligence, and more precise criteria for interpreting images and stratifying risk, are continually refining the effectiveness of this screening method (Piñero). The rigorous safety controls ensure the radiation dose administered is kept to a minimum, with the dose received in each breast calculated using the mean glandular dose (MGD) and calibrated according to the thickness of the breast.
However, it's important to acknowledge that like any diagnostic test, mammography is not without its limitations. There is a percentage of false positives and false negatives, meaning some results may not accurately reflect the presence or absence of breast cancer (Piñero).
A recent systematic review published in PubMed (Autier et al.) has raised questions about the observed 40-50% reduction in breast cancer mortality among women who attend mammography screening. The review suggests that this apparent benefit may be influenced by self-selection bias, where women who choose to attend screening might inherently have characteristics associated with lower mortality overall, rather than the screening itself causing the reduction.
Despite this ongoing debate, the majority of experts and clinical trials support mammography's effectiveness in reducing breast cancer mortality by roughly 10-20%, through earlier detection and better treatment outcomes (Autier et al., 2025; Nature article on breast cancer screening performance, 2025). Organized national screening programs in Europe have documented the prevention of substantial numbers of breast cancer deaths, with over 21,000 deaths prevented through mammography screening (Front Public Health, 2025).
Rodrigo Sánchez-Bayona, the scientific secretary of the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM), emphasizes that claims suggesting mammograms do not save lives and only generate overtreatment are false, simplistic, and dangerous. Early detection allows identifying tumors when they are still treatable with greater effectiveness and less aggressiveness, reducing the need for more invasive procedures such as mastectomies (Sánchez-Bayona).
In conclusion, mammography screening is widely supported by many experts and trials as reducing breast cancer mortality by 10-20%. While it's essential to acknowledge the limitations of this diagnostic test and the ongoing debate about its benefits, it is not accurate to say that mammography does not reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer or that it causes more harm than good according to the bulk of current scientific evidence and expert consensus. The key is to provide clear, honest, and evidence-based information to empower women to make informed decisions about their health.
- In addition to breast cancer, various chronic diseases, such as mental health issues, skin care concerns, and men's health problems, require regular attention and therapies and treatments for management.
- Proactive health management with correct nutrition, fitness, and exercise programs, and regular screenings can lead to better management of cancer, chronic diseases, and other health issues, enhancing overall health and wellness.
- Women's health involves more than just breast cancer; it includes sexual health, reproductive health, and parenting concerns, requiring education and care at different stages of life.
- It's equally important to prioritize mental health, ensuring individuals seeking assistance have access to treatments, support groups, and counseling services for improving quality of life.
- In the realm of men's health, moderation in all things is recommended, embracing a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical advice for prostate and other conditions.
- CBD, a popular compound derived from cannabis, is increasingly being explored as a potential treatment for various health conditions, including mental health disorders, chronic pain, and myriad skin care applications.
- Certain medical conditions, like breast cancer, require rigorous scientific research, driving innovations in treatment and early detection strategies, such as using artificial intelligence and new imaging techniques.
- Cancer awareness and education campaigns play a critical role in society, encouraging early detection, preventative measures like nutritious diets, and seeking prompt medical care for improved outcomes in the battle against breast cancer and other health challenges.
