According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, only 59 percent of American women aged 40 to 49 have had an on-time breast cancer screening. 25 percent reported they have not had a breast cancer screening at all. These findings demonstrate the gap in early screening care for women.
The study was led by Tianshu Gu, MD of the College of Graduate Health Sciences at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, Tennessee. The research focused on women aged 40 to 49. The study was prompted by the recent U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for breast cancer screening. The task force now advises biennial mammography screening for all women aged 40 to 74 years.
Previously, USPSTF recommended women in their 40s come to an individual decision regarding screening with their clinician. This new guidance also comes with increasing attention towards dense breasts.
“It is important to note that all women, including those with dense breasts, should be screened starting at age 40,” USPSTF recommends. “While we call for more research, these women should talk to their clinicians about their options for follow-up testing so that they can get the care that’s right for them.”
Notably, the University of Tennessee study revealed even lower rates of breast cancer screening among sexual and racial minorities. Women with lower incomes and those living in rural areas were also more likely to have late or no mammogram screenings.
“This study identified both unique and shared factors associated with overdue or no mammography screening,” the study reports. “To effectively implement USPSTF recommendations, particular emphasis should be placed on addressing the needs of women without a usual place for care.”
