The American Cancer Society (ACS) has modified its mammography screening guidelines and is now recommending that healthy women begin receiving mammograms annually at age 45 rather than 40. NorthShore will continue to follow the guidelines established by the American College of Radiology (ACR) that women get yearly mammograms starting at age 40.
Why isn’t NorthShore following the ACS guidelines?
As the American Cancer Society acknowledges, data shows that early detection of breast cancer is critical and that starting annual mammograms at age 40 saves the most lives.
Does this apply to all women?
Healthy women or women considered at average risk of breast cancer are encouraged to begin receiving annual mammograms at 40. Women who have a family history of the disease or certain risk factors may start receiving mammograms earlier than 40.
Who should women talk to about this?
Women should discuss their situation with their physicians, while assessing family history as well as other risk factors.