WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) announced her co-sponsorship of the Supporting Expanded Review for Veterans in Combat Environments (SERVICE) Act. This bipartisan legislation – introduced by Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) – would improve the health of women veterans by expanding Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) mammogram screening eligibility.
“I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation to expand access to important, life-saving medical screenings for women veterans who have put their lives on the line while serving our nation,” said Senator Rosen. “Requiring the VA to conduct mammograms for women who served in areas with a high risk of toxic exposure will provide much-needed preventative care, and I will always advocate for the health and well-being of our servicemembers.”
BACKGROUND: According to a report from the National Institutes of Health, the incidence of breast cancer in women veterans and military populations is estimated to be up to 40% higher than the general population.
The SERVICE Act would require the VA to conduct mammograms for all women who served in areas associated with burn pits and other toxic exposures regardless of age, symptoms, or family history. The legislation would also direct the VA to submit a report to Congress within two years of enactment that compares the rates of breast cancer among members of the Armed Forces and the civilian population.
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