The US Preventive Services Task Force has updated its guidelines for mammogram screenings

The US Preventive Services Task Force has updated its guidelines for mammogram screenings, recommending that most women start getting mammograms at age 40 and continue every other year until age 74. This is a change from the previous guidance, which recommended starting biennial mammograms at age 50.

According to Dr. Leana Wen, CNN's wellness expert, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. Screening is crucial to detect cancers at an early stage, when treatment is most effective.

The updated guidance is for women at average risk of breast cancer. Those at higher risk, such as those with a personal or family history of breast cancer, may need additional tests and more frequent screenings. Transgender men and nonbinary people assigned female at birth should also discuss their risk factors with their healthcare providers.

To determine if they need screenings more often or earlier in their lives, women should consider their personal and family history of breast cancer. A woman who has a sister, mother, or other first-degree relative with breast cancer has double the average risk of breast cancer.

At their first mammogram, women can expect an x-ray of the breasts, which may cause some discomfort due to the pressure applied by the imaging plates. However, the discomfort is generally over within seconds.

Besides mammograms, other tests such as breast ultrasound, breast MRI, or genetic testing may be needed for women at higher risk. Women over 74 should discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider, as there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against mammography in this age group.

To reduce cancer risk, younger people can quit smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet. Women should also seek care if they develop any concerning symptoms such as a new mass or lump in the breast or armpit.

Overall, the updated guidance aims to detect breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most effective. Women should discuss their individual risk factors with their healthcare providers and follow the recommended screening guidelines to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.