Report: Women with health-related social needs less likely to get mammogram

Women with health-related social needs such as food insecurity, housing instability and lack of transportation were less likely to report receiving a mammogram in the past two years when surveyed in 2022, according to a report  released April 9 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 66% of women aged 50-74 with at least three health-related social needs were up to date with their mammograms, compared with 83% of women with no health-related social needs. Mammography use also was lower among women without health insurance and a usual source of care.  

“We have to address these health-related social needs to help women get the mammograms they need,” said CDC Chief Medical Officer Debra Houry, M.D. “Identifying these challenges and coordinating efforts between health care, social services, community organizations, and public health to help address these needs could improve efforts to increase breast cancer screening and ultimately save these tragic losses to families.” 

AHA offers resources to help hospitals address the social determinants of health in their communities.