Women in Germany are often unaware of the need for mammography screening between the ages of 50-69, and many forgo regular screening even though they are in an age group at high risk for developing breast cancer. German health authorities hope to change the situation, however, and are launching a new campaign to encourage mammography screening compliance and bring down breast cancer death rates.
In an article we’re featuring this week in our Women’s Imaging Digital Community, German health authorities and women’s health advocates report on the results of a study that found that only 45% of women in the 50-69 age group have mammograms at least every two years. Only 30% of women surveyed understood that breast cancer strikes more often in women over 50.
The survey was commissioned as part of a new program that adds coverage for mammography screening to Germany’s public health insurance system. Coverage started this year for women ages 50-69, and mammography proponents are hoping that the combination of reimbursement for screening and increased awareness of mammography’s value will improve compliance rates.
There are some stumbling blocks, however. German health authorities say the country lacks enough equipment and trained personnel to offer high-quality screening to even half of the 10 million women in the 50-69 age group, and therefore plan to offer reimbursement on a limited basis. Ultimately, they hope to achieve a compliance rate of 70%, which will save an estimated 3,500 lives a year.
Read all about it in our Women’s Imaging Digital Community, at womens.auntminnie.com. When you’re done, feel free to comment on the story in our always-lively Discussion Groups.
