Out of 20.1 million women surveyed, only 11.7 million (59.2%) reported having undergone biennial screening, while 3.0 million (15.2%) were overdue for screening and 5.0 million (25.6%) had never been screened.

The analysis highlighted that screening rates were particularly low among minority groups, including non-Hispanic women of other races, lesbian and bisexual women, rural residents, and those with family incomes at 138% or less of the federal poverty level.

A recent research letter published in JAMA Network Open on December 20, 2024, reveals significant disparities in biennial mammography screening rates among women aged 40 to 49.

The study, led by Dr. Tianshu Gu from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, analyzed data from the National Health Interview Survey conducted in 2019 and 2021.

The study found a clear correlation between family income and screening rates, indicating that as family income decreased, the rate of biennial mammography screening also declined.

Factors contributing to a higher likelihood of not being screened included being non-Hispanic Asian, having a low family income, being uninsured, and lacking a usual place for care.

Women without a usual place of care were found to have a significantly higher likelihood of overdue screenings, with a risk difference of 0.07 compared to those who received biennial screenings.

To address these disparities, the authors of the study suggest implementing targeted interventions and policies aimed at improving healthcare access, coverage, and affordability to enhance health equity in mammography screening.