Women over 50 can get FREE mammograms.  According to the Breastscreen Australia Program a mammogram is a low radiation dose x-ray and is therefore harmless.  This screening detected an invasive cancer per 382 women tested in 2008.

Its times like this I’m glad I’m a boy!  My skin crawls and my eyes water when my wife describes the procedure with the vice-like machine.  I’m glad they don’t screen testicular cancer the same way!

Seriously, the jury has been out for a long time as to whether or not a mammogram does more harm than good for the asymptomatic woman.  Now, the latest research coming to light shows that maybe we’ve got the whole risk assessment mechanism wrong. It appears that short-wave x-ray radiation, of the kind used in this machine may more toxic than we thought.

 Recent radiobiological studies have provided compelling evidence that the low energy X-rays as used in mammography are approximately four times – but possibly as much as six times – more effective in causing mutational damage than higher energy X-rays.  Since current radiation risk estimates are based on the effects of high energy gamma radiation, this implies that the risks of radiation-induced breast cancers for mammography X-rays are underestimated by the same factor. 1

Even using our outdated radiation risk model (which underestimates the harm done), the weight of the scientific evidence (as determined by the work of The Cochrane Collaboration) actually shows that breast screenings are in all likelihood not doing any net good in those who undergo them.

Maybe rather than screening women in this manner, the emphasis should be placed on less invasive and less damaging mechanisms.

To my mind a defence is better than a cure.  Rather than the mammogram being our focus for making a dent on the effects of breast cancer we should be looking at building up the immune system.  Our bodies are designed to eliminate cancer.  A healthy, well nourished body allows for this.

We provide our patients with effective tools to detoxify, such as SCENAR treatment, Far Infrared Sauna, lymphatic drainage massage as well as nutrient and toxic element testing in association with Interclinical laboratories.  Call us now to discuss how we can help you get the best from your body  (02) 6622 6966 or purchase someone you care about a gift certificate.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.