Women Are Opting For Mastectomies Even When Not Necessary
And doctors are troubled by the numbers.
Los Angeles Times:
17% Of Women With Early-Stage Breast Cancer Have Unnecessary Mastectomies, And Doctors Want To Know Why
What happens when doctors encourage patients to decide for themselves what kind of cancer treatment they should receive — and then the patients make the wrong choice? That is the dilemma facing a growing number of surgeons who care for women with early-stage breast cancer, new research suggests. (Kaplan, 12/21)
In other news from across the state —
KPBS Public Media:
Regulation Of Stem Cell Treatments Uncertain In Era Of Political Change
With a new year and a new White House administration just around the corner, some experts in the field of stem cell science say it's unclear whether proposed regulations of unproven and expensive stem cell treatments will move forward. The growing stem cell treatment industry, including a number of San Diego firms, has faced criticism from scientists over its lack of published data to support therapies that often cost patients thousands, and even tens of thousands of dollars. (Wagner, 12/21)