COLUMBIA, Md., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A significant new survey conducted by MedStar Health reveals a stark contrast between women’s fears about breast cancer and their actions regarding preventive health care. While about 75% of women express anxiety over the prospect of developing breast cancer, less than half of those aged 40 and older are undergoing regular mammograms. Furthermore, over 80% of women admit to placing other responsibilities ahead of their health.
Among the survey’s troubling insights, 52% of women over 40 reported they had not received a mammogram in the past year. Additionally, misconceptions about breast cancer persist: one-third of women believe the disease always manifests as a lump, and 25% think a family history of breast cancer is essential for developing the condition. This misinformation continues despite established medical evidence to the contrary.
Dr. Candace Mainor, a medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, commented, “Women are concerned about breast cancer, and that concern is a powerful starting point. When women have clear, trusted information, they feel more confident scheduling their mammograms. Early detection saves lives, and we’re committed to helping every woman take that step.”
The survey highlights the prevalent misinformation that may hinder timely health screenings:
- 33% of women incorrectly believe breast cancer always presents with a lump.
- 25% mistakenly think a family history is necessary to be at risk.
- 30% are concerned that mammograms expose patients to harmful radiation.
Dr. Meghan Letts Milburn, chief of Breast Surgery at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, emphasized, “These myths can unfortunately give women a false sense of security. Breast cancer doesn’t always show up as a lump, and you don’t need a family history to be at risk. Regular mammograms remain the best tool we have for early detection and do not pose a radiation risk.”
Despite the high levels of concern about breast cancer—three in four women expressing fear only 18% prioritize their health over other commitments. This indicates a worrying trend where preventive healthcare takes a back seat amid the demands of daily life.
Dr. Mainor added, “Women are trying to balance work, caregiving, and daily responsibilities, and their own health often falls last. But understanding your personal risk and getting screened on time can save your life.”
The positive takeaway from the survey reveals that an overwhelming 94% of women understand that early detection of breast cancer significantly improves survival rates. Hence, increasing awareness and encouraging regular mammograms are critical steps in addressing this healthcare gap.
“Early detection changes everything,” Dr. Milburn stated. “When breast cancer is found early, treatment is more effective, less invasive, and outcomes are significantly better.”
For individuals seeking to evaluate their risk of breast cancer, MedStar Health offers a complimentary Health Risk Assessment. Additional information can be located at MedStarHealth.org/BreastHRA.
To view the comprehensive results from MedStar Health’s survey, click here.
SOURCE MedStar Health
