Regular screening helps breast cancer survivors avoid a recurrence

Many women who have survived breast cancer are given a prescription to buy Tamoxifen to prevent a recurrence of the disease. New research suggests that when this medication is paired with regular mammograms, women are significantly less likely to ultimately die from the disease.

Researchers from the University of Aberdeen in Australia used statistical models to determine whether or not providing regular mammograms is a cost-effective method for preventing a recurrence of breast cancer. Their results showed that this approach would help doctors catch a greater number of tumors in early stages when they are more treatable.

The researchers said their results stress the importance of catching breast cancer recurrences early, providing a strong argument for offering survivors regular screening.

"Our research has the potential to influence the way in which follow up appointments are organized in the future," said Fiona Gilbert, who led the investigation.

Currently, there is some debate over how often breast cancer survivors should be given access to mammograms. The results of the present study may help clarify the argument.