Why are doctors divided when it comes to recommending mammogram screenings?
When it comes to getting an annual mammogram, many folks are left to wonder when exactly is the right time. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend starting at age 40 for all women, whereas the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends biennial mammograms starting at age 50.
In the recent article published in the Baltimore Times, the author discusses guidelines the American Cancer Society set, where it is recommended that women with an average risk of breast cancer should hold off from getting a mammogram until age 45, instead of 40.
The article notes a specific paper that was published in the Journal of JAMA Internal Medicine in which 871 primary care physicians and gynecologists were involved in a study that shared their breast cancer screening practices in a mailed survey.
Researchers found 81 percent of physicians who completed the survey recommended screening for women 40 to 44, 88 percent for women 45 to 49, and 67 percent for women 75 and older.
With various recommendations, patients are left to wonder, when is the right time to get screened?
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Jodelle joined TriMed Media Group in 2016 as a senior writer, focusing on content for Radiology Business and Health Imaging. After receiving her master's from DePaul University, she worked as a news reporter and communications specialist.