Overdiagnosis of Breast Cancer in Older Women Raises Concerns

A study led by scientists at Yale University's COPPER Center suggests that preventive mammograms for breast cancer may lead to overdiagnosis in older women. The research found that a significant percentage of cancer cases detected through screening in women over 70 are likely to be overdiagnosed, meaning the tumors are unlikely to cause illness before death. The study estimated that over half of these cases in women over 85 might be overdiagnosed. The findings highlight the need for a careful evaluation of the benefits and harms of breast cancer screening in older women, taking into account individual preferences, values, and overall risk factors.