 |
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force:
Breast Cancer and Colorectal Cancer Screening
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) was convened by the U.S. Public Health Service to evaluate clinical evidence and make recommendations on screening tests and preventive measures. It is comprised of private-sector experts in prevention and primary care. Its recommendations include medical imaging for breast and colorectal cancer.
- Screening for Breast Cancer: The USPSTF recommends screening mammography every 1-2 years for women 40 and over. The panel concluded that mammography screening every 12 to 33 months significantly reduces mortality from breast cancer. The task force reported that evidence is strongest for women aged 50 to 69, the age group generally included in screening trials. It said that the evidence that screening mammography reduces mortality in women aged 40 to 49 was not as strong because the incidence of breast cancer is lower among women in this age group.1
- Colorectal Cancer Screening: The USPSTF strongly recommends that clinicians screen men and women aged 50 and older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer. For those at higher risk, such as those with a first-degree relative diagnosed with colorectal cancer before age 60, it is reasonable to begin screening at a younger age. Screening options include: home fecal occult blood test (FOBT), flexible sigmoidoscopy, the combination of home FOBT and flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and double-contrast barium enema – an imaging-based procedure.2
|
Colorectal Cancer Facts
More than 57,000 people died from colorectal cancer in 2001. It was the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Patients who die from colon cancer lose an average of 13 years of life. One of the biggest challenges: Convincing more people to get screened.3 |
1 "Breast Cancer Screening, February 2002," Guide to Clinical Preventive Services, Third Edition, Periodic Updates, Report of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
2 "Screening for Colorectal Cancer, July 2002," Guide to Clinical Preventive Services, Third Edition, Periodic Updates, Report of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
3 Ibid.
|
|
