Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) has acknowledged October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, urging women across Alabama and the United States to prioritize their health by getting screened and learning about breast cancer risks. The month-long awareness campaign encourages women to speak with their healthcare providers and understand the benefits of regular screenings.
In April 2024, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its breast cancer screening guidelines, recommending that all women begin screening every other year starting at age 40. This change reflects growing concerns about rising rates of invasive breast cancer among younger women. Previously, screenings were advised starting at age 50. The updated guidance aims to increase early detection rates, improving treatment outcomes.
According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. In Alabama alone, an estimated 4,000 women are expected to receive such a diagnosis in 2024.
Nationally, the American Cancer Society projects that approximately 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women across the U.S. this year. Of these, about 16% will occur in women under 50. Rising rates of breast cancer among younger women are particularly concerning, as delayed diagnoses often lead to more advanced stages of the disease, making treatment more challenging.
Senator Britt emphasized the importance of early detection in combating the disease, saying, “This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage every woman across Alabama and America to put their health first and talk to their doctor to discuss the best individual screening plan. As breast cancer rates continue to rise among younger women, the importance of regular screening cannot be overstated. Early detection saves lives.”
Senator Britt is also advocating for legislative changes to improve access to diagnostic testing. She, along with Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), introduced the Access to Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD) Act, which aims to remove financial barriers for diagnostic tests by eliminating copays and out-of-pocket costs. This bipartisan and bicameral bill seeks to make diagnostic testing more affordable and accessible for all women.
“Congress must act to make diagnostic testing more affordable by passing the ABCD Act,” said Britt. “Our bill would alleviate barriers to testing, ensuring that more women have access to the care they need. I am committed to supporting cancer research, education, and prevention efforts, and I hope all Americans join me in that mission.”
Currently, insurance companies are required to cover breast cancer screenings without copays. However, the same coverage does not apply to diagnostic tests, which may be needed after an initial screening reveals abnormalities. According to Radiology journal, nearly 41% of women might skip additional imaging if they have to pay a deductible for a diagnostic test.
The American Society of Breast Surgeons and the Susan G. Komen foundation have expressed their support for the ABCD Act, thanking Senators Britt and Shaheen for their advocacy.
Breast cancer diagnostic testing, which includes mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds, plays a critical role in confirming potential cancer detected during initial screenings. Approximately 10% of screening mammograms require follow-up diagnostic testing. Regular diagnostic tests are also often recommended for women with a prior diagnosis or those genetically predisposed to breast cancer.
For more information on breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, individuals are encouraged to visit the American Cancer Society and Breast Cancer Research Foundation websites.
