Use of Mammograms Among Women Aged >40 Years — United States, 2000–2005
Source: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (CDC)

Data from BRFSS (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System) indicate a statistically significant decline in the proportion of women aged >40 years during 2000–2005 who reported having had a mammogram in the preceding 2 years. Since 1999, U.S. women overall aged >40 years have met the Healthy People 2010 objective of 70% of women having received a mammogram in the preceding 2 years (objective 3-13); however, the slight decline indicated by BRFSS data during 2000–2005 suggests a need to monitor mammography screening more carefully. Because mammography screening every 1–2 years can significantly reduce mortality from breast cancer, continued declines in mammography use might result in increased breast cancer mortality rates.

The reason for the apparent decline in screening mammography is unclear and might be attributable to a combination of factors. One study has indicated that breast-imaging facilities face challenges such as shortages of key personnel, malpractice concerns, and financial constraints. Because the number of U.S. women aged >40 years increased by more than 24 million during 1990–2000, the number of available facilities and trained breast specialists might not be sufficient to meet the needs of the population, whose overall median age continues to increase. Previously, low mammography use has been associated with not having a usual source of health care, not having health insurance, and being a recent immigrant. However, until future studies confirm a decreasing trend in mammography rates and determine whether the trend affects all women or only certain subpopulations, determining the causes of this apparent decline will remain difficult.

This entry was posted on Friday, January 26th, 2007 at 8:53 am and is filed under Health and healthcare. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.