Mortality from breast cancer has steadily declined, largely owing to improvement in early detection through mammographic screening. While international guidelines vary between countries and organizations, the majority recommend annual or biennial screening mammography between 40 and 74 years for women at average risk and annual mammogram or annual MRI at a younger age for high-risk women.
The NCCN guidelines recommend annual screening starting at age 40, with no upper age limit in patients without severe comorbid conditions limiting life expectancy. Women at higher risk may begin screening at a younger age, depending on the level of risk and the age identified as being of increased risk.
The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) guidelines recommend annual mammogram screening in women aged 50-69 years, whereas mammography may be considered for women aged 40-49 and 70-74 years, although the evidence for benefit is less well established.
Screening for breast cancer in women of average risk at younger ages is associated with higher false-positive diagnoses.
Learn more about the early detection of breast cancer through screening.
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Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: Pavani Chalasani, Stefania Morganti. Fast Five Quiz: Breast Cancer Presentation and Diagnosis - Medscape - Jan 11, 2023.
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