U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

Iron is important to people’s overall health, especially during pregnancy, but more research is needed on whether or not pregnant people should be #screened for iron deficiency or take iron #supplements. #USPSTF member Dr. Esa Davis shares with JAMA more about our call for more research that can help moms and their babies stay healthy. Recognizing the importance of prenatal care, in the absence of evidence, healthcare professionals should use their best clinical judgement when caring for pregnant patients. Listen to the podcast episode here: https://lnkd.in/eQJXp2yA

Iron is a nutrient that is important to overall health, especially during pregnancy. Pregnant people need even more iron, making them at increased risk for #irondeficiency, which can progress to anemia and cause complications for both moms and their babies. However, for pregnant people who do not have signs of a deficiency, there is currently not enough evidence on whether screening—or using iron supplements—improves their health or the health of their baby. Learn more about the #USPSTF's call for more research on this important topic here: https://lnkd.in/e5ADJB8T

Breastfeeding has several health benefits for nursing parents and their babies, which is why the #USPSTF recommends clinicians provide interventions during pregnancy and after birth to help moms who choose to breastfeed. This #NationalBreastfeedingMonth, take the quiz below to find out how breastfeeding can help keep babies healthy.

#DYK the Task Force has an easy-to-use app with info on all of its recommendations? The app can quickly help you find which screening, counseling, and preventive medication services are right for any given patient. Download the #USPSTF's app—called Prevention TaskForce—so you can help keep your patients healthy here: https://lnkd.in/ebdbbwzU #preventivecare

Meaningful conversations about breast cancer screening are critical to ensuring women feel confident about their #preventivecare. To help inform those conversations, the #USPSTF created a discussion guide that helps healthcare professionals and patients choose the best screening approach together. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/e5mrJTs8 #breastcancer 

One important way to take care of kids’ #eyehealth is to catch issues early by screening children ages 3 to 5 for amblyopia, also known as “lazy eye.” This condition prevents one or both eyes from focusing clearly. Finding amblyopia or its risk factors early is proven to help improve children’s eyesight. Find out more about how healthcare professionals can help kids protect their vision this Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. https://lnkd.in/eCTPnvCd #USPSTF   

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., but the good news is there are evidence-backed ways to prevent lung cancer or find it early. We know that not smoking, and quitting if you do smoke, is the best way to prevent lung cancer. The #USPSTF also found that screening people between the ages of 50 and 80 who are at high risk of lung cancer based on their smoking history can save lives. This #WorldLungCancerDay, learn more about these critical preventive services: https://lnkd.in/evfkiUhN

Dr. Li Li is one of the #USPSTF's leading experts in primary care, population health, and cancer prevention. He holds several roles at the University of Virginia, all while practicing as a family physician and serving in a leadership role for multiple national cancer prevention and primary care organizations. In Dr. Li’s free time, he enjoys trail hikes and table tennis. Help us thank Dr. Li for his work in the comments below! https://lnkd.in/eym6h9pw #MemberSpotlight

In honor of the #USPSTF’s 40th anniversary, test your historical knowledge below! #USPSTF40Years

In honor of the #USPSTF's 40th anniversary, AHRQ Director Robert Otto Valdez, PhD MHSA recently reflected on the Task Force’s history and our collective work to help people live longer, healthier lives. Join us in commemorating this important milestone and learn more here: https://lnkd.in/ee2ySHG3 #USPSTF40Years