This conclusion was drawn based on the results of a survey conducted by USA Today and Gallup, the results of which were revealed through a feature on USAToday.com. The survey consists of 1,136 women respondents, and revealed that a total of 76% of this representative population Disagree or Strongly Disagree to the recommendations of the USPSTF. One of our readers, Cindy, also made her sentiments very clear and expressed displeasure over the recommendations.

Among the concerns that women had regarding the new recommendations is that delaying mammograms may place their lives in danger. Most women who responded to the survey reportedly intend to get mammograms before they turn 50, adhering to the recommendations set forth by the American Cancer Society.

The poll also showed, however, that women still make decisions based on preconceived notions that may need to be corrected. For instance, a majority of the respondents reportedly were under the impression that the USPSTF based their recommendations solely on cost, which is untrue. The fact that this recommendation was released at a time when health insurance coverage is a hot topic may have fuelled this belief. Also, almost half of the respondents believed that the risk of women in their 40s for developing breast cancer is extremely higher that in actually is.

While we do understand the strong reactions of some women over these recommendations, it may be to everyone’s best interest to exercise due diligence in educating one’s self about the disease. Whether it’s the American Cancer Society or USPSTF that is making the recommendation, ultimately, a woman’s body is her own and she should have the right to take care of it as she sees fit. What is important for a woman is to work closely with her physician, revealing pertinent family medical histories and lifestyles and other information that may serve as guidelines towards assessing one’s medical needs.