Making Sense of Mammography Recommendations

Now that the U.S. Preventive Services Tasks Force has reversed its position on screening mammography for women in their 40’s: the group no longer recommends routine screening for average risk women in this age group and the ACS has stated that it will continue to recommend annual mammograms starting at the age of 40, this controversy has a big number of women very confused.

How are you supposed to respond to this? With calmness and communication with your physician. Ask your physician, what are the risks and benefits? What is the right decision for you? Each woman needs to consider the individual benefits and risks and discuss them with her healthcare provider before making a decision about when to start screening mammography and how often to get one.

It is important to emphasize that the new guidelines are for women considered at “average” risk at developing breast cancer. Women with a family history or other factors (a positive BRCA gene mutation, for example) are considered to be at a “higher” risk of developing breast cancer and are likely to receive a recommendation for more frequent mammography screening or beginning screening at an earlier age than the average woman.

We know this issue raises concerns, especially for young women. Regardless of your age or history of breast cancer, if you notice unusual changes in your breasts, you should consult a health care provider and discuss whether or not a mammogram or other testing is necessary.

- Dana McGuirk, RN
Breast Nurse Navigator