PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The more we learn through research and analysis of the health of everyone in society, the better our opportunities are to impact care. Since there are no absolutes, we rely on recommendations supported by the best evidence.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force made a major announcement regarding mammograms and screening for breast cancer. Cases of breast cancer are occurring at younger ages, and the U.S. has dropped the age for the average woman to have mammograms to 40. They also are recommending greater research into breast cancer with a focus on women of all ages and races.
Social determinants of health are a major focus. The old recommendation was to start screening between the ages of 40 and 50. The new recommendation is to start at 40 — and not to wait. Talk about this with your doctor.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
