At what age should women begin to have yearly mammograms according to current recommendations?

Women should begin to have yearly mammograms at age 40 according to current recommendations. This guideline is supported by several organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Cancer Society, which suggest that women should start annual screenings at this age. Starting mammograms at 40 allows for early detection of breast cancer, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Research has shown that breast cancer risk increases with age, and beginning screenings at 40 strikes a balance between the potential benefits of early detection and the risks associated with false positives and unnecessary interventions in younger populations. Although some guidelines suggest beginning at later ages, starting at 40 is generally considered a proactive approach to women's health. Thus, the recommendation emphasizes the importance of early screening to aid in the early detection of breast cancer, aligning with public health principles of prevention and timely intervention.