By Emma Larkin, ARNP
It can be difficult to keep track of when to start and how often to screen for different types of cancers.  There have been several sets of guidelines with recommendations on when to begin screening for breast cancer with mammograms and how often one should be screened.  The three main associations that create guidelines are the American Cancer Society, The United States Preventative Services Task Force, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.  As more research becomes available, these guidelines are updated over time.

 

This year, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has changed their recommendations based on new research.  It has been shown that women are generally at increased risk for breast cancer as they approach the peri-menopausal age.   Based on this research, it is recommended that women begin breast cancer screening with mammograms starting at age 45.  They should have annual mammograms through age 54.  At this time, women of average risk can transition to having mammograms every other year.  However, it is important to discuss when to start screening with your doctor.  There are some cases when an individual may have an increased risk for breast cancer, and screening earlier is recommended. The age to stop screening is depending on individual factors, and when a woman’s life expectancy is 10 years or less.

 

The United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) has updated their guidelines in recent years as well (2009).  Their recommendations differ from the newly released ACS guidelines.  USPSTF recommends screening every other year starting at age 50 and ending at age 74.  These recommendations are based on the highest risk for breast cancer being between ages 50 and 74.  However, they also note that women in their 40’s may benefit from mammography.

 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has a different set of guidelines as well.  They recommend starting breast cancer screening with mammography starting at age 40 and having mammograms annually.  They do not offer recommendations on when to stop screening.

There is some conflicting information regarding the best time to start screening, which can be confusing to the general public.   The ACS guidelines are based on the most current research, and are reasonable to follow.  In the end, it comes down to a personal choice between and woman and her doctor based on her individual risk factors.

And as an example of the personal choices that some women make to mitigate risk factors, read here to learn about the brave steps Angelina Jolie took!