by: SAC Health Staff Writer
Diagnoses are on the rise in younger women, and U.S. health officials have updated their mammogram guidelines in response. Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we wanted to dispel the uncertainty about when women should get screened.
In 2024, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released new guidelines stating that women should get mammograms every two years between the ages of 40 and 74. The previous guidelines called for women to start getting screened at age 50, but the Task Force estimates that starting at 40 will save 19% more lives than the old recommendations.
The new guidelines do not make specific recommendations for the half of all women with dense breasts, nor for black women (who are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women). In the final recommendation, USPSTF stresses the need for more research into better ways to help women in those two categories.
The updated mammogram guidelines have caused some confusion because other groups have given conflicting advice. However, almost all agree with USPSTF’s basic assertion that women with average risk should schedule a mammogram when they turn 40.
If your personal health history or genetic factors put you at increased risk, or if you aren’t sure what risk factors apply to you, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. If needed, they can work with you to schedule a screening before the age of 40.
Some of the most common risk factors for breast cancer:
Having had breast cancer before
A family history of breast cancer
Dense breasts
The BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations, which can be tested for
Having started periods before age 12
Having started menopause after age 55
One common point of conflict between sources of breast cancer advice is whether breast self-examinations (BSEs) are recommended for prevention. Since 2009, USPSTF has recommended against BSEs, arguing that they cause too many psychologically harmful false positives and haven’t been documented to reduce deaths.
Patient reports are a key component of diagnoses and treatment. Even without formal BSEs, women should be aware of the normal shape and feeling of their breasts and prepared to mention any anomalies to their healthcare provider. However, regular mammograms are still the most important part of a breast cancer detection plan.
According to ACS, breast cancer diagnoses are increasing at a steady rate of 0.6% per year, though the rate rises to 1.0% in women under 50. However, death rates declined 42% from 1989 to 2021, likely because of better detection and more frequent screenings.
SAC Health providers are ready to help you understand your breast cancer risk, discuss treatments, and schedule mammograms. Make an appointment to speak with your provider today! Visit sachealth.org/appointments.
