Editor, Times-Union: To Karen Gianotti. I have no idea who you are or what your medical credentials are but I did notice that you didn't sign your letter as Dr. or M.D. I don't know where you came up with the idea that a "first pregnancy that ends naturally in a birth" gives some sort of protection from breast cancer, but I find that sort of statement far more dangerous that the cartoon you were criticizing.
My wife had a "first pregnancy that ended naturally in birth." In fact she had three more after that. At 45, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and she died at 50. We spent five years in that mill and I never once heard anyone make a statement such as yours. To my knowledge, there is no protection from breast cancer but there are mammograms. If there is no history of breast cancer in your family, have your first at age 40. If there is family history start at 30.
Yes, they are expensive and yes they are uncomfortable, but the earlier they find a problem the better your chances of survival. Just the peace of mind that you're clear is more than worth the expense and discomfort.
