New Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations have been announced, advising women at average risk to undergo screenings every other year starting at age 40. The finalized guidance was released by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent panel of national experts.
This update means that mammograms should now commence a decade earlier than previously suggested. Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, pointed out that the change was prompted by a couple of worrying trends.
"We've observed a rise in breast cancer cases among younger women, with about 10% of diagnoses occurring in women under 45," Gounder explained on "CBS Mornings." "Moreover, Black women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages, experiencing more aggressive forms of the disease, and facing a 40% higher likelihood of succumbing to breast cancer compared to White women. By implementing more rigorous screening guidelines, we aim to combat these disparities."
The updated recommendations are based on evidence available to the task force right now, Gounder said, adding there's still a lack of "adequate information" when it comes to how best to screen women who have dense breasts and whether women over age 75 need to continue screening.
In addition to calling for more research, the task force said, "these women should talk to their clinicians about their options for follow-up testing so that they can get the care that's right for them."
The earlier recommendations shouldn't affect insurance coverage, either.
Gounder said most women already had insurance coverage for breast cancer screening every year starting at age 40.
The Center for Disease Control says most health insurance plans are required to cover mammograms every one to two years beginning at age 40 with no out-of-pocket cost. While the Affordable Care Act provides free mammograms under these specifications, many people can be hit with unexpected bills for second looks and follow-up tests.
"These guidelines are one factor in determining breast cancer screening, but they're not the only one," Gounder said.
Other organizations already recommended annual mammograms before age 50.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends beginning mammograms at age 40, every year or two, while the American College of Radiology advises getting one each year beginning at 40. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms starting at age 45, with the option to start earlier based on the individual's preference.
- Expert advice on mammograms and breast cancer screening
- Essential preventative health screenings in your 40s
