Physician knowledge of and adherence to the revised breast cancer screening guidelines by the United States Preventive Services Task Force

Abstract

Objective: We sought to assess knowledge and adherence to the revised US Preventive Services Task Force breast cancer screening guidelines among gynecologic care providers.

Study design: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study based on a survey conducted among gynecologic care providers.

Results: Forty providers completed the survey (80%). In response to the statement "The current recommended age to initiate breast cancer screening is … .," 48.7% of providers responded in accordance with revised guidelines. For the statement "Women between the age of 50 and 74 years old are recommended to have screening mammography," 46.2% of respondents answered in accordance. In response to the statement "The United States Preventative Services Task Force recommends teaching breast self-examination," 71.8% of providers responded in accordance. A total of 37 respondents (92.5%) stated that they were aware of the revised guidelines, but 17 (42.4%) stated that they were applicable to their patient population.

Conclusion: Knowledge of the revised guidelines appeared to be relatively low in our provider sample.