10, 2024) requires providers to let women know if they have dense breasts and discuss if they may need additional tests to detect breast cancer. The FDA’s new nationwide breast density notification standard (taking effect Sept. Since this imaging is coded as diagnostic, it also typically comes with significant patient cost.Īny conversation about early detection must include the need to address gaps that exist in access to diagnostic services For some at high risk of breast cancer, screening mammography is not as effective in catching early-stage breast cancer, and supplemental breast imaging is recommended in addition to annual screening mammography. And while these tests are typically covered by insurance, they come with significant out-of-pocket cost. Breast cancer cases in women under 40 are less common (about 4 percent), but there are a variety of known factors that increase their risk and therefore, often warrant a screening earlier in life.īut most important-and what has been missing from this conversation-is that, while a screening mammogram is often the first step toward diagnosis, it’s not the only step.ĭiagnostic breast imaging-including diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound and breast MRI-is required to rule out breast cancer or confirm the need for a biopsy. While breast cancers in younger women can be more aggressive, this population also faces early menopause, loss of fertility, pregnancy after treatment and overall higher stage of breast cancer at diagnosis. In fact, it’s the leading cause of cancer death among women in the U.S., ages 20 to 39. Women under age 40 diagnosed with breast cancer often have a worse prognosis than older women.
We’ve also made enormous strides in understanding breast cancer risk and genetic mutations, which support the idea that age 40 may not be early enough for some women’s first mammogram. And while the USPSTF calls for more evidence to better understand whether Black women could benefit from different screening strategies, Komen continues to urge women to discuss screening plans with their provider and develop a plan based on their personal risk, especially as these new draft recommendations are only for women of average risk. We’ve known for years that Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women, and that it’s the most common form of cancer among Hispanic/Latina women. This is why Komen works tirelessly to ensure breast cancer research includes all communities and is beneficial to everyone. And these experiences are not properly reflected in the bulk of breast cancer research, historically based heavily on white individuals. It means looking at everyone for who they are, their experience, their family, how they live and where they live. True personalized medicine is what will save lives. Simply put, a one-size-fits-all approach to screening recommendations creates vulnerable populations. While these are only draft recommendations from the USPSTF, let’s discuss the gaps that still need filling before the final recommendations are published, and how you can play a role in saving lives-including your own. This begs another question: Is 40 early enough, and is every other year frequent enough? Who may be left behind and become one of the many who experience inequities in their outcome of breast cancer? Black women are more likely to be diagnosed younger with more aggressive types of breast cancer. While the USPSTF has recommended breast screening begin at age 50 since 2009, the idea that women should start receiving mammograms at age 40 has been the general consensus in the medical, scientific and breast cancer communities for decades-and, thanks to the PALS Act, women with health insurance are covered to do so when they turn 40.īut, we now know that breast cancers in younger women are more likely to be fast-growing, higher grade and hormone receptor negative. It’s also an unfortunate example of how confusing health care is for most Americans. That’s a great question with a complex answer. However, soon after the announcement, my phone and inbox were inundated with one question in particular: “Wasn’t it always 40?” Komen, we were relieved to see the recommendation that all women get screened for breast cancer every other year starting at age 40.Īs an advocate and leader in the breast cancer community, I am grateful the news cycle has brought to light a desperately needed conversation that must remain top of mind if we’re going to move the needle in breast cancer. Preventive Services Task Force recently released their updated draft recommendations for breast cancer screening, which is a meaningful step in the right direction. BYLINE: Victoria Wolodzko Smart, Senior Vice President of Mission at Susan G.
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