"Muslim Women More Likely To Skip Breast Cancer Screening" - Jessica Firger
Breast cancer screening with mammography is a controversial issue, but it can uncover a tumor at an early stage when it's easiest to treat. Currently, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual mammograms for women between the ages of 50 and 74, with screening under 50 being an “individual” decision. But many women don't have access to this information, a challenge that is especially pronounced in Muslim communities, where standard public health messaging doesn’t address concerns related to religious beliefs. Most hospitals that serve populations consider the religious female patients. The Mount Sinai Health System’s breast imaging division for example, provides extended hours and a physician staff of mostly women, said Laurie Margolies, MD, associate professor of radiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and director of breast imaging at the Dubin Breast Center of The Mount Sinai Hospital. “We strive to address cultural barriers such as modesty and language, which may enhance the experience for all patients,” said Dr. Margolies. “The majority of our breast imaging staff is also female, which may be important to those whose religion mandates maximal modesty.”
- Laurie Margolies, MD, Associate Professor, Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Director of Breast Imaging, Dubin Breast Center of The Mount Sinai Hospital