Even with better treatment options and targeted drugs for breast cancer, a recently reported Dutch study confirms catching breast cancer early through screening mammograms saves lives.

The Netherlands study, led by Sepideh Saadatmand at Erasmus University Medical Center, studied every breast cancer case registered in the country from 1999-2012, which was nearly 174,000 cases.  The findings support regular screenings so that tumors are detected at the earliest possible stage. The research also reassures that less invasive surgery saves lives as well as radical mastectomies.

The Dutch study also confirmed that consistent, high-quality care matters. Breast cancer survival rate in the Netherlands is 96 percent, and up to 100 percent for the smallest tumors. The five-year breast cancer survival rate in the United State is 90 percent.

This research reported that before 2006 the survival rate was 91 percent. After 2006, smaller tumors were detected and removed.  Less invasive lumpectomies became more common than mastectomies.

It also strongly suggests that, even after accounting for the biological variation in tumors and more enhanced treatments, tumor stage at the time of diagnosis still matters, which is a powerful though indirect argument in favor of screening mammograms.

Please encourage all the women in your life to get a mammogram screening. You could save their life.

When seeking high-quality, consistent care for cancer treatment, Mid Florida Cancer Centers offers some of the highest technology available in radiation therapy, as well as enhanced targeted chemotherapy treatment options and compassionate physicians. Call for a consultation today, 386-774-1223.