The revised set of rules for breast cancer screening put forward by the U. S. Preventive Services Task Force have managed to create much confusion that has prevailed for quite some time now. Also, there has been much controversy regarding the recommendations with the Opposition this is just another way for the Government to cut back on funds to take the major revamp of the healthcare bill forward.

The US Preventive Services Task Force asserted, "There is convincing evidence that screening mammography reduces breast cancer mortality", but was then quick to point out that the age to start screening should be pushed up from the current 40-49 years to 50-74 years. Also, the frequency of the mammograms should be pulled down.

With the report, many institutes and organizations launched into researchers and studies, with the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology supporting that task force's recommendations, in addition to the Mary Washington Hospital's Collaborative Breast Cancer Service Committee.

Despite all the discussions, clarifications and studies, the confusion has managed to linger on. There are many doctors who have criticized the recommendations, especially in a country where breast cancer is one of the most common forms of the disease.

Some officials and experts are now trying to put people's concerns at ease by saying that women are free to go ahead and start screenings whenever they want to, and as for the frequency, they can discuss it with their doctors. Some organizations have even asserted that women should go with their "gut feeling".