**Missing Your First Breast Cancer Screening Could Increase Long-Term Risk of Death by 40%, New Study Finds**
Women who miss their first screening appointment for breast cancer may face a 40% higher long-term risk of dying from the disease, according to a recent study. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, understanding the significance of screening and the implications of this large-scale research is more important than ever.
Published on September 24 in the journal *The BMJ*, the study followed more than 400,000 women in Sweden for up to 25 years. The findings emphasize the critical role of timely breast cancer screening. But when should women start screening, and why does delaying the initial mammogram increase long-term risk? Are there other tests women should consider beyond mammograms? How valuable are breast self-exams? And importantly, what steps can women take to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer?
To explore these vital questions, we spoke with CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen—an emergency physician, adjunct associate professor at George Washington University, and former Baltimore health commissioner.
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### How Common Is Breast Cancer?
Dr. Leana Wen shares that breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States and also ranks as the second leading cause of cancer death among women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In 2022, over 279,000 new breast cancer cases were diagnosed in women across the U.S., and in 2023, more than 42,000 women died from the disease. Globally, a February report found that 1 in 20 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.
At current rates, researchers estimate that by 2050, there will be 3.2 million new breast cancer cases and 1.1 million breast cancer-related deaths annually worldwide.
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### Why Is Early Screening So Important?
Early breast cancer screening is crucial because the prognosis is best when cancer is diagnosed and treated at the earliest stages. According to the American Cancer Society:
– When breast cancer is localized (has not spread), the five-year survival rate exceeds 99%.
– When cancer has spread to other organs, the five-year survival rate drops to about 32%.
Early detection saves lives.
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### When Should Women Begin Screening for Breast Cancer?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its guidelines last year, recommending that most women start mammogram screening at age 40.
The current advice is to have a mammogram every two years from age 40 until 74. For women aged 75 and older, the decision to continue screening should be made together with a primary care provider, considering overall health and personal risk.
These guidelines apply to women at average risk. Those considered higher risk—due to factors such as chest radiation history, certain genetic mutations, or close family members with breast cancer—should consult their healthcare provider about possibly starting screening earlier and more frequently.
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### What Did the New Swedish Study Find?
The study followed 432,775 women in Sweden invited to their first mammogram screening. Nearly one-third did not participate. These women were less likely to attend subsequent screenings and more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage breast cancer.
Key findings include:
– Women who skipped their first screening were 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer.
– They were 3.6 times more likely to have stage 4 breast cancer at diagnosis compared to women who attended their first screening.
– After 25 years of follow-up, breast cancer deaths were significantly higher among women who missed their first mammogram.
Although these findings are based on Sweden’s healthcare system and may not apply universally, the study highlights an important concept: missing early screenings can set a pattern of persistent avoidance, resulting in delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.
An editorial accompanying the study described attending the first mammogram not as a one-time event, but as a *long-term investment* in a woman’s future health and survival.
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### Why Does Delaying the First Screening Increase Long-Term Risk?
Dr. Wen explains that initial nonparticipants were more likely to skip follow-up screenings repeatedly. The causes behind this pattern are complex and could include:
– Lack of awareness about the importance of screening
– Barriers to accessing care, such as time, transportation, or cost
– Fear of possible results
– Cultural attitudes towards medical care
As a result, these women were more frequently diagnosed at later stages of cancer, when treatment is less effective and survival rates are lower—leading to increased mortality.
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### Beyond Mammograms: Are There Other Tests Women Should Consider?
Mammograms remain the standard screening tool for women at average risk. They use X-rays to detect abnormalities in breast tissue.
However, women at higher risk or those with dense breast tissue may benefit from additional screening methods, such as:
– Genetic testing to identify inherited risk factors
– Breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
– Breast ultrasound
Women concerned about their risk or breast density should discuss these options with their healthcare provider.
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### What About Breast Self-Exams?
Breast self-exams are not recommended as a replacement for mammograms and are no longer routinely advised as a screening tool.
That said, women should be familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts and remain vigilant for any unusual changes, such as:
– New lumps or masses
– Nipple discharge or inversion
– Pain or swelling
– Changes in skin color or texture (redness, flakiness)
– Enlarged or painful lymph nodes under the arms or near the collarbone
If any changes are noticed, prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential for diagnosis and timely treatment.
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### How Can Women Reduce Their Risk of Developing Breast Cancer?
While some risk factors are beyond control (age, genetics), lifestyle choices can lower risk. Dr. Wen recommends:
– Quitting smoking
– Limiting alcohol consumption
– Maintaining a healthy weight
– Staying physically active
– Eating a nutritious diet
These measures not only reduce breast cancer risk but also improve overall health.
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### Final Thoughts
Breast cancer remains a significant health challenge worldwide. Studies like the Swedish screening research underline the lifelong importance of attending the first mammogram and subsequent screenings.
Early detection saves lives, and combined with healthy lifestyle choices, women can take proactive steps to protect their breast health.
If you are approaching the recommended screening age or have concerns about your risk, talk to your healthcare provider to develop a personalized screening plan.
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*October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a timely reminder to prioritize your health and encourage loved ones to do the same.*
https://www.phillytrib.com/news/health/missing-the-first-mammogram-linked-to-increased-risk-of-breast-cancer-death-new-study-suggests/article_38828e14-6806-4d93-9f07-ffb283504894.html