In 2009, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued screening guidelines that would preclude women ages 40 to 49 from getting a mammogram, only offering the test every two years to women over the age of 50. Anjali Malik, MD, a breast imageing radiologist in Washington, DC, explained that data clearly shows that annual mammograms initiated at the age of 40 reduce breast cancer deaths by 40 percent.
The American College of Radiology has been working to protect access to life-saving mammograms. "In 2015, a three-year moratorium was placed on these guidelines, which was then renewed until January 1, 2020," Dr. Malik explained. "The USPSTF guidelines are graded at 'C' and 'B' levels, and have been heavily criticized for their lack of relevant evidence."
In July, a House subcommittee approved the fiscal year 2021 funding bill, which includes extending the moratorium through 2025. The delay would prevent insurers from denying coverage for these lifesaving examinations. The legislation will be sent to the full House Appropriations Committee for markup, so it's important to know where your representative stands on this issue — especially because it's not getting as much attention as other women's healthcare policies.