Task force recommends biennial mammograms starting at 40

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force yesterday released for public comment through June 5 a draft recommendation that all women get screened for breast cancer every other year starting at age 40. The panel previously recommended that women in their 40s make an individual decision about when to start screening based on their health history and preferences. The draft recommendation applies to women at average risk of breast cancer, including people with a family history of breast cancer and people who have other risk factors, such as having dense breasts. It does not apply to people who have a personal history of breast cancer; very high risk of breast cancer due to certain genetic markers or high-dose radiation therapy to their chest at a young age; or a high-risk lesion on previous biopsies. 
 
“New and more inclusive science about breast cancer in people younger than 50 has enabled us to expand our prior recommendation and encourage all women to get screened every other year starting at age 40,” said Carol Mangione, M.D., immediate past chair for the task force.