We desperately need more cancer research

January 1, 2010 12:35 am

I'd like to thank Dr. Frederick Tucker ["More research needed to fight breast cancer," Dec. 27].

Dr. Tucker made the point I have been waiting to see in the press in this latest round of controversy over mammography: We need more research to find more effective diagnostic and treatment tools for breast cancer.

I know that I was lucky to find my invasive cancer through a routine mammogram at age 47 (19 years ago), but I also have friends who went undiagnosed for many months or longer because repeated tests did not reveal their cancers. Some of them died from the disease.

As the doctor made clear, we need more effective techniques to find and treat dangerous tumors early.

Kathy Waltermire

Colonial Beach