The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends all women start getting screened for breast cancer every other year starting at age 40. This new recommendation, published in the JAMA medical journal, replaces the task force's 2016 recommendation. 

Below, Nebraska Medicine radiologist Rebecca DeVries, DO, shares her thoughts on the updated recommendation and what it means for women's health. 

“Basically, it's a shift from recommending women start screening for breast cancer between the ages of 40 and 50 to recommending that all women start getting screened when they turn 40,” says Dr. DeVries.

The updated advice aligns more closely with what other medical groups recommend, but Dr. DeVries says it’s still not ideal. 

“Fortunately, the task force is getting closer to our breast radiologist recommendations. We recommend getting a mammogram every year starting at age 40 for all average-to intermediate-risk women. This aligns with the recommendations made by the American College of Radiology, Society of Breast Imaging, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and American Society of Breast Surgeons,” says Dr. Devries. 

Screening every two years, as recommended by the task force, may not be enough for everyone, especially those with a higher risk for breast cancer or other health complications.

“Everyone should get a breast cancer risk assessment by age 30 and start screening annually by age 40 – or sooner if they are deemed high risk,” says Dr. DeVries.

Of course, it’s always best to talk to your doctor about what's right for you. By staying on top of breast cancer screenings and knowing your risks, you can take control of your health and catch issues early.