In 2006, more than 250,000 U.S. women will be diagnosed with breast
cancer. This deadly disease will claim the lives of more than 40,000
friends, neighbors, mothers and daughters. These are staggering
statistics.
However, breast cancer death rates are going down. This decline is
largely attributed to the benefits of annual mammograms that enable
physicians to detect cancer at its earliest stages, and improved
treatment programs that help patients better manage their cancer.
Both digital and film-based mammography can identify breast disease in
women who may have no obvious signs of breast cancer. Historically,
mammograms have been conducted using medical X-ray film. Now, new
digital imaging technologies are emerging that offer a complementary
method for early detection of breast cancer.
The arrival of more digital imaging options sometimes can cause some
patients to "wait it out" until their health care provider installs
digital imaging systems. But the advice from physicians appears to be
overwhelming: Do not wait for the latest digital technology. One of the
most critical aspects for a full recovery is early detection, and it is
far better to have any kind of mammogram than to delay or skip a
mammogram entirely. The decision on which imaging technology to use
should be a secondary issue that patients can discuss with their
physicians.
"Digital technologies show great promise in helping to detect breast
cancer in certain patients," said Dr. John M. Lewin, Diversified
Radiology of Colorado, a leader in providing technologically advanced
radiology imaging. "In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is
considering relaxing guidelines that may make it easier for
manufacturers of digital mammography systems to bring new products to
market faster."
Should the FDA adopt revised guidelines, it is possible that health
care providers and patients could have access to a broader range of new
digital mammography products earlier-and perhaps at a lower cost-as
more competition among manufacturers may drive down prices of these
systems.
One of the innovators of digital medical imaging systems is Eastman
Kodak Company, which currently markets a digital mammography system for
use in Europe, Latin America, Asia and other parts of the world. Kodak
has applied to the FDA for approval to market this system in the U.S.
and the company is conducting clinical trials of this system in the
U.S. and Canada. "We applaud the FDA for examining ways to streamline
the approval process for digital mammography products that may lead to
increased adoption and improved access to these innovative systems,"
said Michael Marsh, vice president, Kodak's Health Group.
Given the benefits and improvements in both digital and film mammogram
technology, there is more reason now than ever before to encourage
mothers, grandmothers, sisters and friends to get an annual mammogram.
The American Cancer Society continues to recommend the importance of
mammograms as a highly effective tool in the detection of breast
cancer. What is critical is not the technology used to produce a
mammogram, but ensuring that women age 40 and older have regular
mammograms as part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
