Prophylactic Double Mastectomies Cost More, Lower Quality Of Life

Breast cancer is a scary diagnosis that nearly 250,000 American women receive annually. Hoping to increase the odds in their favor of never having to hear the diagnosis again, many women undergo prophylactic mastectomies. This surgical procedure involves the removal of tissue on both breasts, not just the one where a tumor has been found. Popularized by Hollywood’s Angelina Jolie in 2013 when she announced her decision to undergo a contralateral prophylactic mastectomy, the procedure’s use has been rising. Researchers, however, say this might not necessarily be a good thing.

While it is exceptionally brave for women to choose to have both breasts removed to stave off cancer’s return, the decision may pay off with much higher costs over the long run and a decrease in quality of life, studies have found. Although sometimes medically called for due to a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors for recurrence, double mastectomies should be considered very carefully, some researchers assert.

A recent study on the topic found that women end up paying about $5,583 more for a double mastectomy over the long run. The actual costs for a single breast removal and routine surveillance are much less. More troubling, however, were findings that women who underwent double mastectomies were found to have a lower quality of life.

Nationally, the rate of contralateral breast cancers has been declining. Even so, the rate of double mastectomies has climbed from 9.7 percent to 24 percent for women age 45 and younger in recent years. The procedure is known to reduce the risk of contralateral breast cancer significantly, but hasn’t been shown to increase survival chances, researchers say. What’s more, the complication risks increase with this more involved surgery.

Women who are considering contralateral prophylactic mastectomies are urged to discuss the potential benefits, risks and costs with their healthcare providers. This procedure is sometimes medically indicated due to higher risks. When it is not, however, careful consideration before moving ahead with the procedure is strongly recommended.

An estimated 40,000 American women die from breast cancer each year. With the statistics in mind, all women will find it is recommended they discuss this condition, their personal risks and possible preventative measures with their healthcare providers. Routine medical examinations can serve as a first line of defense against the disease. Women are also urged to undergo routine mammograms as indicated by their healthcare providers. Personal risk factors may prompt healthcare providers to recommend mammograms at any age, but those with lower risks will find these become part of the standard routine around the age of 50.

North Texas Cancer Center at Wise, a division of Choice Cancer Care, is now operating as the Cancer Center at Wise Regional and is one of the most renowned cancer treatment centers in Texas.