Understanding the New Screening Mammogram Guidelines

Every year in the United States, about 350,000 women receive a diagnosis of breast cancer, the second most common cancer among women. Nearly 45,000 American women die of the disease annually.

Mammograms play a vital role in detecting breast cancer, especially in its earliest stages. In fact, mammograms are routinely prescribed as part of menopause care — but medical guidelines say women may benefit from being screened earlier. 

At Women's Health Services in Arlington, Texas, our team helps women get the medical screenings they need to keep a close eye on their health and enjoy optimal wellness at every stage of life.

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this post is dedicated to helping you understand why mammograms are important and why you might want to consider being screened earlier.

Quick facts about mammograms

Mammograms are considered the gold standard for detecting breast cancer in its early stages, when treatment is simplest and most effective. Mammograms use diagnostic imaging technology to evaluate breast tissue and look for abnormalities that could indicate cancer or an increased risk of cancer.

Most mammograms use X-rays to see inside breast tissue. During a mammogram screening, you typically stand in front of the mammogram machine. Your breast is gently lifted and positioned on a flat tray, and a second tray is lowered over top to help flatten out your breast tissue. This essential step makes it easier to visualize the tissue.

Other mammograms (sometimes called 4D mammograms) use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to view breast tissue. Both 3D and 4D mammograms tend to provide more detailed images to help detect breast cancer earlier or to evaluate abnormal results of a traditional mammogram.

Mammogram guidelines and recommendations

Because the risk of breast cancer increases with age, guidelines from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) have recommended mammograms every other year for women between 50-74 years of age. But earlier this year, the USPSTF introduced new recommendations.

Under these proposed guidelines, the USPSTF advises earlier biennial screening, specifically beginning at age 40. This update would bring the USPSTF guidelines in line with current recommendations from other organizations that advise screening beginning at age 40. 

For instance, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology routinely recommends women be offered mammography beginning at age 40, with screening occurring every 1-2 years.

It’s also important to note that these guidelines are for women who have an average risk of developing breast cancer. Women at increased risk should talk to our team about how often and how early your screening should begin.

Care tailored to your evolving needs

Having regular mammograms is essential for staying healthy. To learn more about breast health and when you should have a mammogram, call 817-277-9415 or request an appointment online with our team at Women’s Health Services today.