USPSTF-recommended guidelines lead to decline in mammograms and early detection programs for women under 50
November 10, 2015
"We are concerned that some women may simply accept the new recommended guidelines as standard ??“ not taking into consideration their own health history and other breast cancer risk factors," said Hurlbert.
The new USPSTF recommendations address limitations with current mammography technology and the level of scientific understanding about breast cancer disease progression, aggressiveness, and likelihood of metastasis. That is why the Avon Foundation for Women continues its commitment to fund cutting-edge research to develop new tests for more accurate risk assessment, to better determine which women benefit from mammography, ultrasound or MRI screening, and accelerate advances in tumor analysis technology to better determine the appropriate level of aggressiveness for treatment.
"The decision as to when and how often to have a mammogram is between a women and her health care provider," said Hurlbert. "We believe every woman regardless of income or age should have access to early breast cancer screening services and education, as well as quality treatment."
The Avon Foundation for Women along with other expert groups, including the American Cancer Society, American College of Radiology and Susan G. Komen for the Cure, supports current mammography guidelines starting screening at age 40 until better alternatives are developed.
The 2010 Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Forum brought together more than 275 of its grantees, including breast cancer community health educators, patient navigators, nurses and physicians from all 50 states to participate in discussions about programs that enable women to access early detection programs and breast cancer treatment.
Collectively, this network of Avon Foundation for Women-funded programs educates more than 1,000,000 people each year on breast health care, links 150,000 women to mammography screening and navigates thousands of breast cancer patients through treatment and care.
SOURCE Avon Foundation for Women