Regarding the article "Do mammograms CAUSE cancer?" I had a mammogram when I was 48 years old, after not having one for two years. The mammogram detected a VERY small tumor, that I would never have been able to feel/see. I had no breast cancer in my family, and no concern that I would be at risk for it. Even though it was small, the cancerous cells had already spread to one of my lymph nodes, where another (and much larger) tumor had formed. It was an aggressive form of cancer (estrogen positive). I had surgery, chemo and radiation -- and yes it was a horrible, scary medical process. But I'm alive today (six and one-half years later)...and I feel I'm alive due to having that mammogram.
I understand the concerns about having unnecessary medical procedures, and exposure to radiation when it may not be medically necessary; but advice to not have mammograms, without another option for early detection and treatment of this horrible death-causing disease (that affects 1 out of 8 women during their lifetime) --- seems irresponsible.
I've read recently about having MRI screenings instead of mammograms (more reliable). But many insurance companies will not pay for this more expensive procedure. And, the contrast dye used in this procedure may be another health concern. With all the money and research going into this subject, I can only hope that a safe, effective early-detection procedure can be developed --- and SOON.