Washington, D.C. – The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) – the leading trade association representing manufacturers of medical imaging equipment, radiopharmaceuticals, contrast media, and focused ultrasound therapeutic devices – today expressed support for the expanded recommendations contained in the latest United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) draft recommendation statement on breast cancer screening, but also encouraged additional reliance on new clinical guidelines.

USPSTF’s draft recommendation outlines that all women ages 40 to 74 years should be screened for breast cancer every other year. The draft recommendation is an update from current USPSTF guidance, which recommends biennial mammograms beginning at age 50. The current recommendation has contributed to lack of awareness about breast cancer screening amongst younger populations, as the rate of breast cancer among women ages 40 to 49 has increased 2% annually, on average, from 2015 to 2019, according to the National Cancer Institute.

“The USPSTF's draft guidance is a crucial advancement for public health and disease awareness,” said Patrick Hope, Executive Director of MITA. “We commend the USPSTF for taking this step forward; however, it is crucial to give further consideration to the importance of annual screening for women aged 40 and older, as recommended by leading professional societies. Additionally, addressing health equity and disparities in screening among high-risk populations, such as black women or women with dense breast tissue, is of utmost importance.”