1 May 2024 • Women who are considered to be at average risk for breast cancer should have mammograms every other year starting at age 40 years until age 74, according to the latest recommendations from the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).

The Task Force recommends mammography every other year from ages 40 to 74 years ('B' grade) -- a change from the previous guidance: biennial screening starting at age 50, with individual decision making for women in their 40s. The revised recommendation statement was published in JAMA.

Experts pointed out that USPSTF guidelines do not apply to women at high risk for breast cancer, and suggested regular risk assessment should commence at age 25 years to identify women at high risk who should start annual MRI screening. Furthermore, many women with dense breasts or family history of breast cancer, or both, meet high-risk criteria for supplemental screening.

Source: JAMA| Read full story