Newsnation: Why was the guidelines on mammograms changed?

I joined NewsNation today to talk about the updates in the USPSTF guidelines on #Mammograms and #BreastCancerScreening.

🏥 Many national guidelines such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) were already recommending mammograms starting at age 40, and continuing every 1-2 years.
🏥 The data from USPSTF is based on data that shows that starting at age 40 will reduce mortality from breast cancer by almost 20%
🏥 WOC, especially black women, are at higher risk of developing more aggressive breast cancers, and are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer.
🏥 There is currently no data showing screening every year vs every other year is better at prevention. I will tell you that I personally get a #Mammogram every year, and encourage my patients to have regular conversations with their doctors to determine what makes the most sense for them.
🏥 Some people with higher risk (e.g. if they have a family history, genetic predisposing condition) may require screening even earlier than age 40.

Bottom line, get yourself screened, talk to your doctor, and don’t be scared of the mammogram. Getting one could save your life!

You can watch here

About Shikha Jain, MD FACP

I am a practicing, board-certified hematology/oncology physician in Chicago. I speak on topics ranging from the impact of social media on healthcare, how physicians can utilize social media, how to write Op-eds in the medical world, gender equity and barriers to career advancement, and topics in GI oncology and immunotherapy. My goal is to explain complicated topics in simple terms. I also enjoy writing and you can find some of my writing on this site. I am a mother to three amazing kids and married to a gastroenterologist. I look forward to connecting with you.

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