Enhancing early breast cancer screening: an expanded role for mammography facilities is needed

Registered mammography facilities in Connecticut were surveyed in 1988 to determine the capacity and scope of services provided to women. A total of 112 responses were analyzed. Early cancer screening service other than mammography are not routinely provided. Less than 50% of facilities offer instruction on breast self-exams or provide physical breast examinations in conjunction with mammograms. Only one in three facilities have mechanisms in place to notify women of their need for periodic screening. We conclude that efforts to expand the scope of screening services offered by mammography facilities may enhance our capacity to detect early breast cancer in women.