When the pandemic disrupted life as we know it, many women fell behind or missed their annual mammograms. LSU Health New Orleans Surgical Oncologist Dr. Shawn McKinney said she, like other surgeons, is seeing the repercussions with more patients who have advanced or later stages of breast cancer.
“We’re certainly seeing the effects of that, and our numbers across the country are showing that. They’re showing that women are presenting with more advanced disease,” said McKinney.
McKinney said Louisiana has always been above the national average for diagnosis of breast cancer, especially among the younger African American population presenting with more aggressive breast cancer. Last week U.S. Preventive Services Task Force changed course and advises to begin screenings at 40 years of age instead of 50.
“It’s going to take a while, I’m hoping that the screening guidelines may be able to help,” said McKinney.
During the pandemic, a gap in health insurance complicated matters for many and annual mammograms fell by the wayside. McKinney said there are several programs to help women pay for mammograms and she urges patients to never let finances be an obstacle and to always tell their healthcare provider about their family history.
“And unfortunately, women have to take charge of their own health and come in with information and really demand to be evaluated,” said McKinney.
McKinney said at any age if you notice something different or find a lump in your breast, call your physician and be evaluated as soon as possible.
For a listing of where you find free mammograms and pap smears visit the Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program click here.
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