American Cancer Society Releases New Recommendations

The American Cancer Society released new recommendations yesterday for screening mammography.  They are recommending that women of average risk begin screening mammography at age 45.  With the new recommendations, women ages 45-54 should be screened annually, and 55 and older should begin biennial screening, with the opportunity to screen annually if they wish.  

The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging continue to recommend that women have yearly mammograms beginning at age 40.  

As a practicing breast radiologist, I have diagnosed breast cancers in women of all ages, many younger than 40.  I have seen late stage cancers in older women who skipped a yearly mammogram, or two.  I have followed many women who are breast cancer survivors, thanks to early diagnosis and treatment.  I am a strong believer that mammography saves lives.  I urge women to be knowledgeable about their care and understand the benefits of screening mammography.  Please take the time to check out these two websites for more information.

End the Confusion  and Mammography Saves Lives