A Million-Dollar Marketing Juggernaut Pushes 3D Mammograms

Researchers raise questions about benefits of new machines as industry-paid doctors promote them

Regular 2D mammograms are less likely to show false alarms compared to 3D mammograms, according to one 2016 study. somGorodenkoff/Shutterstock

When Dr. Worta McCaskill-Stevens made an appointment for a mammogram last year, she expected a simple breast cancer screening—not a heavy-handed sales pitch.

A receptionist asked if she wanted a free upgrade to a “3D mammogram,” or tomosynthesis.