Have you been told you cannot have an ultrasound without a mammogram?

Here are 5 ways to be empowered and help grow the “Opt Out” movement:

1. See “Mammogram Opt Out Letter” below
2. Review evidence: download FREE ebook
3. Learn more here: Be W I S E (Screening 411)
4. Sign this Petition: INFORMED CHOICE in Breast Cancer Screening / Insurance for Ultrasound and QT Imaging (Please sign, but do not donate on this petition!)
5. If you’d like to make a DONATION, please click here. Thank You!

Mammogram Opt-Out Letter

(Feel free to copy and paste)

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to formally decline mammograms at this time. This decision is based on my personal review of independent medical literature, scientific research, and my own health priorities and values.

While I understand that mammography has been widely used as a tool for early detection of breast cancer, I have concerns regarding its risks, limitations, and potential harms—particularly in women who are asymptomatic and of average risk.

My decision is informed by the following considerations:

– Lack of proven mortality benefit in certain groups: Several large studies, including randomized trials, have shown that mammography screening does not significantly reduce overall breast cancer mortality in women under 50 or in those without high-risk factors.

– Risk of overdiagnosis and overtreatment: Mammography often detects abnormalities such as Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) that may never become life-threatening. However, once detected, these findings frequently lead to aggressive interventions (surgery, radiation, hormone therapy) that may not be medically necessary and can negatively impact quality of life.

– Risk of under-diagnosis: Mammograms miss 40% of INVASIVE cancer in dense breast tissue. 

– Unnecessary biopsies: Studies show that approximately 80% of breast biopsies are benign, meaning many women endure pain, anxiety, and possible tissue injury from procedures that ultimately reveal no cancer.

– Radiation exposure: Repeated exposure to even low-dose ionizing radiation over time may pose a cumulative risk, especially in women who begin screening at a younger age or undergo frequent follow-ups.

– Compression: Studies report up to 70-90% of women experience pain or discomfort

– Psychological and emotional toll: False positives, unnecessary biopsies, and labeling abnormalities as “disease” or “pre-cancer” can lead to anxiety, stress, and long-term consequences, even when no invasive cancer is present.

– Preference for alternative imaging: I am actively exploring safer, non-radiation-based breast health monitoring options, including self-breast awareness, QT Imaging, and Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS).

I request that this decision be noted in my medical record and that my choice be honored without pressure, fear-based messaging, or assumptions about compliance. I am committed to making evidence-informed, individualized decisions regarding my health, in consultation with providers who respect informed consent, patient autonomy, and shared decision-making.

If you would like to discuss this further, I welcome a respectful and open conversation.

Thank you for your understanding and support.