HHS launches effort to improve breast cancer screening, early detection

The Department of Health and Human Services Oct. 27 announced a new initiative to improve breast cancer screening and detection efforts. The initiative, led by the Office on Women’s Health, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and DenseBreast-info.org, will coordinate actions that include expanding breast density education and improving diagnostic follow-up. HHS said more than 40 health systems will expand evidence-based practices and address delays in care under the program, called the OWH-AHRQ Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Follow-up Initiative. The department said OWH and DenseBreast-info.org will also expand access to educational resources to improve breast density awareness, support informed discussions between women and healthcare providers, and promote understanding of breast cancer screening and diagnostic follow-up options.