Mammograms — examining the role of routine screening in low-risk women
Athena Institute for Women’s Wellness is pleased to support the 2026 launch of a “LUNCH AND LEARN” interactive series with eminent scholar and physician, Dr. James Kolter, M.D., hosted by the YMCA of Greater Philadelphia at the Phoenixville branch.
Mammograms — examining the role of routine screening in low-risk women, current evidence, potential overuse, and harms of non-judicious screening. Dr. Kolter has committed to bringing his essential medical expertise and teaching background to promote healthy aging for the YMCA community.
His research, published papers and posters with Athena Institute Colleagues can be accessed on line at these links:
The Risks of Overdiagnosis Screening for Breast Cancer - Is it worth it?
Mammography for Symptomless Women - Not so wise
Breast Cancer Screening Frequency Update 2016
Mammography screening in symptomless women may do them more harm than good
Overdiagnosis is defined as the accurate diagnosis of a real disease, like cancer, that if never discovered or 'found', in its early stage would never have caused a serious problem. The woman would have lived out her life without knowing she had the 'disease'; it would not have caused any distress. Unfortunately, these overdiagnosed women become victims, subjected to stress, toxic 'treatments', radiation, and surgeries that harm rather than help the quality of their lives.
Dr. James S. Kolter, M.D.
About Dr. Kolter:
Retired Physician Director, ObGyn, Bryn Mawr Hospital; formerly, he held teaching positions at Pennsylvania Hospital, PCOM, Temple School of Medicine, and Jefferson School of Medicine. Furthermore, he helped develop minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotics, while serving as Chief of Ob/Gyn at Paoli Hospital. He completed both his medical degree (1976) and residency training (1980) from the University of Pennsylvania