Breast Cancer Awareness amongst American women faces many challenges, including less information about the breast cancer age, frequency of mammograms and concern about developing cancerous tissue.

Cost of screening remains to be on the higher side, making it difficult for women with limited means or in lower income groups to undergo recommended frequency of mammograms, that is once in two years.

Many survey respondents breast cancer screening cost as a factor for not undergoing mammogram; while the problem is more acute amongst ethnic minorities, income based disparity is wider. Higher number of respondents in the high-income group ($40,000+ a year) affirmed having undergone mammogram.  

Greater awareness about the provisions of Affordable Care Act with regard to breast cancer screening can increase the number of women that go for mammogram. Under the Affordable Care Act, women aged 40 years and more enjoy coverage for mammograms, conducted annually. Some states provide coverage even in the event of pre-existing condition as well.  

In addition to the cost of screening, high probability of success of medical interventions to cure cancer was touted as a reason for decreasing concern and screening amongst women, especially the younger lot (25 to 40 years old).

The survey carried out for ABC News by Langer Research Associates, New York primarily highlighted the gaping holes in breast cancer awareness, especially the fact that the current level of awareness on survey variables is lower than 2007 level.

Six years ago, 61% women expressed concern about developing breast cancer; in 2013, only 46% of the respondents said they are concerned about the risk of disease; more number of women aged 40 or above and with family history of cancer reported undergoing a mammogram.

There was conflict in information regarding the age to start mammograms and the frequency. Only a small section of the respondents was aware of the updated guidelines of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2009). Most of them knew about previous recommendation only, which is not very bad.