ANS mandates digital mammography coverage for all ages

The National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS) has mandated that health insurance plans must cover digital mammography for all ages when medically indicated, effective October 1. Previously, mandatory coverage was restricted to women between the ages of 40 and 69.

Digital mammography is an advanced version of the conventional exam that offers lower radiation exposure, reduced compression time, and digital image storage for easier clinical monitoring. The ANS decision aims to facilitate early detection of breast cancer, which the National Cancer Institute (Inca) estimates affects approximately 73,610 new cases annually in Brazil. The agency noted that removing age restrictions aligns with the goal of early diagnosis and supports the 'Pink October' awareness month.