According to the US Food and Drug Administration, mammography or a low dose X-ray imaging of the breasts remains the most effective screening for breast cancer. Regular breast cancer screenings allows detection of cancer before any symptoms are noticeable.
But, there were some reports from patients and providers of health care that claim that thermography is a much better alternative to mammography. This is a type of test which shows heat and blood flow patters near the body’s surface. However, the FDA emphasize that there is no scientific data to back up such claims.
Thermography: Not a Viable Alternative to Mammography?
Until now, there is no proof of thermography as a sole test for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. According to Helen J. Barr, MD and director of the Division of Mammography Quality Standards in the FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health, women should not rely on thermography solely for the screening and diagnosis of breast cancer.
FDA Is Doing Everything in their Power to Protect the Public
In recent years, there has been a reduction in the deaths from breast cancer and one of the reasons is the ability to detect it in the earlier phases, as the American Cancer Society point out.
And, choosing thermography over mammography may fail to detect the cancer at the earliest phase. The FDA considers thermography to be only an additional tool for primary tests like mammography.
The FDA has therefore taken regulatory measures against those who are misleading patients to believe that thermography can somehow replace mammography. They will do their best to protect the public health by scheduling a regulatory meeting, sending letters, and take judicial actions.
Sources:
