Breast cancer screening: My practices and response to the USPSTF guidelines

Q. You argued in the debate that screening for breast cancer should start earlier than proposed in the USPSTF guidelines, as aggressive cancers are more likely to be found in younger women. The USPSTF recommends screening begin at age 50. At what age do you advocate breast cancer screening to begin?

Q. One argument against beginning screening earlier is “overdiagnosis.” How do you respond to overdiagnosis as a concern?

Q. How would you diagnosis breast cancer “just right” given the limited screening techniques (and limited understanding of DCIS)?

Q. You mentioned that you do not like the language of benefits and harms and do not use them in your practice. What alternative language do you use when counseling patients?

Q. What are your concerns with the USPSTF C recommendation for screening mammography among women aged 40-49?