Study Finds Double Mastectomy May Not Increase Breast Cancer Survivability, But Offers Insight for Patients

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology has shed new light on the effectiveness of double mastectomies as a treatment for breast cancer. While the procedure is commonly used to prevent cancer from returning and spreading, the study found that it may not actually increase survivability for patients.

The study, which analyzed data from over 661,000 women diagnosed with cancer in one breast between 2000 and 2019, revealed that women who underwent a lumpectomy or a mastectomy had a low chance of developing contralateral breast cancer. However, researchers found that removing the other breast via a double mastectomy did not improve survivability rates.

Despite these findings, the study also showed that over 80% of women did not die from breast cancer after 20 years of follow-up, regardless of the type of surgery they underwent. Lead author Dr. Steven Narod emphasized that the results should not impact patients’ decisions regarding the procedure, but rather raise important scientific questions about breast cancer development and spread.

Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women in the United States, with thousands of new cases diagnosed each year. Early detection, awareness of family history, and preventive lifestyle choices are crucial in improving survivability rates. Physicians like Dr. Tracy-Ann Moo encourage individuals to develop “breast self-awareness” to monitor any changes in their breasts and seek medical attention promptly.

While the study may challenge the current approach to double mastectomies, it highlights the importance of ongoing research and advancements in breast cancer treatment. As the medical community continues to learn more about the disease, patients can make informed decisions about their care and improve their chances of survival.