Joco Today

U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Jeanne Shaheen have expressed approval for the updated cancer screening guidelines released by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines align with the senators' efforts to ensure continued access to regular cervical cancer screenings.

Earlier this year, Senators Marshall and Shaheen sent a letter to Xavier Becerra, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, advocating for the preservation of existing cervical cancer screening guidelines. Their concern was based on data indicating an increase in cervical cancer rates among women under 50, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The USPSTF acknowledged these trends and opted to maintain the guidelines set in 2018 for cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) screenings.

Senator Marshall, who has a background as an OB/GYN, emphasized the importance of early detection through expanded screenings. "As an OB/GYN, the recent rise in cervical cancer among women under 50 is deeply troubling," he stated. "I’m glad to see the HHS take our bipartisan recommendation seriously and increase these lifesaving screening services."

Senator Shaheen highlighted the disproportionate impact on women of color and those in rural areas due to limited access to screenings. She noted that this lack of access increases the likelihood of undiagnosed and untreated cervical cancer cases. "I’m glad the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force agreed with our assessment and acted in response to our request," she said.

Senator Marshall's commitment to health care extends beyond his legislative role; he previously served as an OB/GYN for over 25 years. In May 2021, he introduced the Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act, aimed at reducing maternal mortality through federal grant programs that promote evidence-based practices.