Controlling breast cancer in older women: the physician's role.

The number of women older than 65 years is the highest in history and continues to increase. Given that breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women and that risk increases with age, it is important that older women participate in regular screening. Physician referral is the reason most women receive a screening mammogram. However, as women's ages and risk increase, the frequency of screening declines, potentially putting older women at greater risk. It is advocated that physicians adopt guidelines for breast cancer screening and practice them with their elderly, as well as younger, patients.