JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – State Representative Chris Dinkins introduced an amendment to HB 1252 that will change age statute from 50 years of age to 40 years of age for women to start getting mammograms. Dinkins stated that lowering the recommended age is a preventative measure that will increase early detection of breast cancer.
“The sooner doctors can identify the problem, the sooner they can get women the treatment they need,” said Dinkins, R-Annapolis. “Detecting and treating breast cancer as early as possible is the best way to prevent death from this terrible disease that has impacted so many of our friends, family, and loved ones.”
The age adjustment mirrors updated recommendations on breast cancer screening guidance from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) made in 2017. ACOG insists that regular screening mammography starting at age 40 reduces breast cancer mortality rates in average-risk women.
The amendment was added to HB 1252; a piece of legislation that will add digital mammography and breast tomosynthesis to the definition of low-dose mammography. It will also require reimbursement rates to accurately reflect the costs associated with each procedure.
Dinkins believes that the addition of her amendment to HB1252 will create comprehensive health care legislation that will benefit women across Missouri.
“I know that many families, like mine, have felt the impact of breast cancer,” Dinkins said. “HB 1252 and my new amendment looks to provide access to early detection and treatment for women across the state.”
