To the editor:

Over the years, I have watched in horror as two close friends, one 50, the other 30, succumbed to breast cancer that had spread, causing uncountable suffering.

Now, with all the discussion about new guidelines for women over 50 relating to the frequency of mammograms, there are more questions than answers. So, here is my take.

I am now 80, healthy, with no family history of breast cancer. I had my last exam a few months ago, and so far, all results have been negative. Each year, I wondered about the effects of radiation, even from the newer mammography machines, which is not insignificant for older women.

During one’s lifetime, one is sure to be exposed to multiple X-rays, chest, dental, bones, etc. During a recent one-month hospitalization at KU Med for pneumonia, I received daily X-rays of my chest. At KU Med, and later at LMH, I also underwent two CAT scans of my lung, which are known to have the highest level of radiation. So, one might say that I am a walking X-ray machine, and I AM concerned.

However, I will have no more mammograms. What’s the point, at my age? I would agree to have yearly exams and have a mammogram to check out a suspicious reading, and if necessary, I might have a lumpectomy, but no chemo or radiation.

I have a living will, which everyone, regardless of age and gender, should have. When the good Lord tells me I’m ready, I will be.

I realize that only you can make such a decision. As for me, my mind is made up.