Breast cancer remains a significant cause of death among women in the United States, with over 40,000 deaths attributed to the disease each year. Despite a decrease in the number of deaths over time, certain groups, such as Black women, uninsured women, and those with low incomes, are at higher risk of dying from breast cancer. Screening mammograms have been proven to reduce breast cancer deaths by 22%.
However, accessing mammograms remains a challenge for many women due to various social needs that prevent them from staying up to date with their screenings. These needs include social isolation, job loss, lack of reliable transportation, food or housing insecurity, and cost barriers to healthcare. The cost of healthcare is a major obstacle for many women who face significant financial challenges in accessing mammograms and other necessary treatments.
Regular screening mammograms are crucial in detecting breast cancer early when it is most treatable. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women between the ages of 50 to 74 years receive a screening mammogram every two years. For women between the ages of 40 to 49 years, it is advised to discuss with their health care providers about when to start and how often to get a mammogram.
To improve outcomes and decrease mortality rates from breast cancer, increasing access to and awareness of screening mammograms is essential among marginalized groups who are at higher risk. Early detection through regular mammograms can greatly improve outcomes and save lives by enabling timely treatment and intervention when needed.
In conclusion, while progress has been made in reducing deaths from breast cancer among women in the United States, there is still much work to be done in ensuring that all women have equal access to screening mammograms and other necessary treatments. By prioritizing this issue and working together towards greater awareness and accessibility, we can continue to make progress towards improving health outcomes for all people affected by this deadly disease.
