A report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on April 9 showed that women with health-related social needs, such as food insecurity, housing instability, and lack of transportation, were less likely to have received a mammogram in the past two years. In 2022, only 66% of women aged 50-74 with at least three health-related social needs were up to date with their mammograms compared to 83% of women with no health-related social needs. Mammography use was also lower among women who lacked health insurance and a usual source of care.
Dr. Debra Houry, the Chief Medical Officer at the CDC, stressed the importance of addressing health-related social needs in order to help women access the mammograms they need. She highlighted the need for coordination between healthcare providers, social services, community organizations, and public health to address these needs and improve breast cancer screening efforts. This collaborative approach could ultimately help save lives and prevent tragic losses for families affected by breast cancer.
To help hospitals address the social determinants of health in their communities, the American Hospital Association (AHA) offers resources. By working together to identify and address health-related social needs, healthcare organizations can make a meaningful impact on improving access to essential screenings like mammograms and ultimately improve health outcomes for women across the country.
