Haley A. Moss, MD, MBA

The VHA Breast and Gynecologic Oncology System of Excellence (BGSoE), established in 2021, provides comprehensive, high-quality cancer care tailored to veterans diagnosed with breast and gynecologic cancers and those considered high-risk based on genetic testing or family history.¹ Since its inception, the BGSoE has supported more than 7000 patients.¹ For breast cancer, new USPSTF guidelines now recommend initiating biennial mammography at age 40, reflecting efforts to address rising incidence in younger populations.² The VHA recommends genetic testing for all veterans diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in order to expand access to targeted therapies, facilitate risk reduction for secondary cancers, and enable cascade testing for at-risk family members.^3,4

Uterine cancer is a growing concern for veterans, with rising incidence and mortality, particularly in aggressive nonendometrioid subtypes.^5,6 Black women in particular have higher uterine cancer mortality rates. This is of particular relevance within the VA, as Black women are overrepresented compared to the general population.^6,7 This disparity underscores the need to improve outcomes for all patients while prioritizing targeted interventions for Black women.