Susan G. Komen® Urges Personalized Approach in Response to Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations
April 30 2024 - 11:30AM
Business Wire
Response to Recommendations for Breast Cancer
Screening from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)
Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization,
today commented on the final recommendations made by the U.S.
Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), advocating biennial
screening mammography for average-risk women beginning at age
40.
In a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by advances in science
and technology, Komen emphasizes the pressing necessity of
personalized screening and treatment plans. While Komen recognizes
the challenges of guiding a population toward health-related
decisions, a one-size-fits-all model is outdated in the era of
precision medicine. Each individual's unique risk factors,
including family history, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle
factors, must be carefully considered to optimize screening
effectiveness and improve outcomes.
While Komen generally supports the updated recommendation to
begin screening at age 40, there is a crucial need for early
conversations between patients and their health care providers to
determine the screening approach that best meets their needs
regardless of age. Komen further emphasizes the critical importance
of annual screenings for those at average risk. A biennial
approach, as called for in the guidelines, may allow cancers to
advance undetected.
“Annual screenings provide the best opportunity for individuals
to detect their cancers early when treatment options are easier and
survival rates are higher,” said Paula Schneider, president and CEO
of Susan G. Komen and breast cancer survivor. “Everyone deserves a
personalized breast cancer screening plan tailored to their unique
needs, determined in partnership with their trusted health care
provider.”
According to the CDC, 25% of eligible women have forgone
mammograms in the past two years. Diminishing the significance of
regular screening through the new guidelines could exacerbate this
troubling fact. These recommendations may cause additional
confusion to patients, particularly for individuals with dense
breasts or a family history of breast cancer and may create
barriers to screening services.
As USPSTF guidelines are directly tied to health plan
requirements of no-cost coverage of services for patients, Komen
expresses concern that these updated recommendations may impact
coverage for many patients, driving down access to and utilization
of all needed screening modalities. This could result in increased
late-stage diagnoses when breast cancer is more difficult and more
expensive to treat.
Recognizing the ongoing challenges and disparities in screening
access and utilization, Komen calls upon policymakers, health care
providers, advocacy organizations, and the broader community to
redouble their efforts in promoting breast cancer awareness,
education and early detection initiatives for all people, aligned
with their personal risk profile.
As steadfast advocates for breast health, Komen remains
committed to advancing screening practices, promoting
evidence-based guidelines, ensuring affordable access, and
improving outcomes in the fight against breast cancer. For more
information, please visit komen.org.
About Susan G. Komen®
Susan G. Komen® is the world's leading nonprofit breast cancer
organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever.
Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to
fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of
people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for
patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to
high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people
with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who
promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease
that claimed Suzy's life, Komen remains committed to supporting
those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching
for tomorrow's cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN.
Connect with us on social at
www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/.
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