Author Interviews, Breast Cancer, JAMA, USPSTF / 01.05.2024
USPSTF: New Guidelines Recommend All Women Get Screened for Breast Cancer Beginning at Age 40, Earlier if They Are at High Risk
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Wanda K. Nicholson, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A.
Senior Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Professor of Prevention and Community Health
Milken Institute School of Public Health
George Washington University
Dr. Nicholson was appointed chair of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in March 2024. She served as vice chair from March 2022 to March 2024 and as a member of the Task Force from January 2009 through December 2013.
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?
Response: Breast cancer is the second most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer deaths for women in the U.S. After reviewing the latest science, the Task Force recommends screening all women for breast cancer every other year starting at age 40 and continuing through age 74. This new approach has the potential to save nearly 20 percent more lives from breast cancer and has even greater potential benefit for Black women, who are much more likely to die from breast cancer.
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