Higgins Votes For Resolution Supporting Access To Mammography Screening

Press Release

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) joined his colleagues in the House of Representatives in approving a resolution he cosponsored supporting the use of mammography screening as a valuable tool in the early detection of cancer.

"Women deserve to have access to the full array technology available in today's health world and the decisions on personal medical care are best left to the patient and their doctor," said Congressman Higgins, a member of the House Cancer Caucus.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force recently issued new guidelines on regarding mammography screening for women age 40 to 49. The new guidelines, while non-binding, reflect a change from USPSTF mammography recommendations issued in 2002, and have caused concerns among health care providers and confusion among many women.

The resolution approved by the House encourages the National Cancer Institute to continue to invest in research and development of effective screening tools for improved detection of breast cancer. In addition, the legislation urges insurance companies to continue comprehensive coverage for mammography services.

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