Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers found in women worldwide. In fact, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime with risk increasing substantially as women enter their 40s.
A new study published by the Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network (CISNET) highlights the importance of beginning screening mammograms at the age of 40, and repeat them every single year. This publication provides clear guidance among the varying recommendations from different health organizations.
What is CISNET?
Established in 2000, by the National Cancer Institute, CISNET is a collaborative network of researchers focused on using data analysis models to understand the impact of cancer prevention, screening, and treatment strategies on public health.
Their work has been pivotal in shaping public health policies and screening guidelines for various medical conditions, making their studies a key resource for organizations setting their standards of care.
A Closer Look At Their 2023 Study
The most recent study from CISNET, conducted in 2023, is a comprehensive analysis that support the recommendation for annual mammograms starting at age 40 for women at average risk of breast cancer. This study not only aligns with many existing guidelines, but also provides conclusive evidence showing the positive effect when women choose to get screened routinely.
This new data serves to promote consistency in breast screening practices across different health organizations and physician circles, at a time when hesitancy to get screened is on the rise. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates about 65% of women ages 50 – 74 up to date with their mammograms that continues to trend downward. Access to convenient women’s imaging services in a world post-COVID 19 has been a key reason for this shift.
How Was The Data Collected?
Understanding the data and methodology used for the study helps when connecting the key findings to your own breast health journey. CISNET researchers used a wealth of previously published medical data to simulate various screening scenarios:
- Women who got screenings every two years (biennial) from age 40 – 74
- Women who got screenings every two years (biennial) from age 50 – 74
- Women who got screenings every year (annual) from age 40 – 74
- Women who got screenings every year (annual) from age 40 – 79
These screening scenarios are derived from different screening guidelines, including the recently published USPTF Screening Guidelines, which received a lot of pushback from major breast health experts.
Each model estimated the potential outcomes in terms of breast cancer mortality and reduction, life years gained, and the accuracy of detecting serious benign conditions.
Key Findings & Takeaways
The study highlighted several crucial findings:
- Reduced Mortality – Annual screenings from age 40 – 79 showed a 42% reduction in breast cancer deaths, significantly higher than screenings starting later in life or done biennially.
- Increased Life Years – More life years were gained when screenings were conducted annually starting at age 40.
- Improved Detection – Annual screenings resulted in better detection rates, reducing the incidence of false positives and more invasive studies such as breast biopsies.
Why Start Screening At 40?
The starting age for breast cancer screening has been a topic of debate among various health organizations. However, the CISNET 2023 modeling study provides compelling evidence that the appropriate guideline to follow is to get your screening mammograms every year starting at age 40. Here’s why:
- Early Detection – Screenings starting at 40 allows for the detection of best cancer at very early stages, often before a tumor is physically noticeable through a self-exam. Early-stage cancers are typically more treatable and have better outcomes.
- Better Survival Rates – Early detection correlates with significantly higher survival rates. Women diagnosed at stage 0 or 1 breast cancer have nearly a 100% survival rate.
- Consistency in Screening – Getting your annual screening routinely helps maintain a consistent track record of breast health, making it easier to spot any unusual changes over time.
The Role of Screening Mammography
Screening mammograms provides a clear and accurate view of your breast tissue using specially-designed X-rays to produce 3D images. Developing a routine of getting your screening every year is one of the most important steps you can take when prioritizing your breast health. Fortunately with the expansion of preventative care coverage, most insurance plans cover your annual screening mammogram in full at no cost to you.
Having Conversations With Your Doctor
If you are nearing or have surpassed the age of 40, there is no need to panic. As you visit your healthcare provider during your annual visit, it is important to be an advocate for your breast health by discussing breast cancer screening.
Your doctor will provide guidance based on your health history, risk factors, and screening guidelines. For women at high risk due to genetic factors or family history, screenings or additional studies may be recommended to start even earlier.
Always remember, when it comes to breast cancer, every year and every screening can make a difference.
Schedule Your Appointment With Us
Our goal is to offer you and your healthcare provider the most informative results possible, and we make it easy for you to get an appointment.
Across numerous locations in South Jersey, we offer same-day and next-day appointment options with evening and weekend hours.
Reach out to us at any of the following locations to book an appointment:
- Cherry Hill Office – Cherry Hill, NJ
- Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
- Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
- Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
- Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
- West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
- Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
- Women’s Center at Cross Keys – Sewell, NJ
- Women’s Center at Medford – Medford, NJ
- Women’s Center at Mount Laurel – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Women’s Center at Voorhees – Voorhees Township, NJ
Learn more about the board-certified, subspecialized radiologists who read, analyze, and interpret the findings here at South Jersey Radiology Associates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting mammograms at age 40 allows for early detection of breast cancer, which is important for effective treatment and better survival rates. Studies, including CISNET 2023, have shown that annual screenings starting at this age significantly reduce mortality from breast cancer.
It is recommended to get a mammogram annually if you are 40 years or older. This frequency can maximize the benefits of early cancer detection and increase the chances of successful treatment if breast cancer is found.
Some women may experience discomfort during a mammogram due to the compression of the breast needed to obtain clear images. However, the procedure is quick, typically lasting only a few minutes, and steps can be taken to minimize discomfort.
If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may need to start screening earlier or more frequently. It’s important to discuss your individual risk factors with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening plan for you.
The actual imaging process of a mammogram typically takes less than 15 minutes, with compressions happening a few seconds at a time. The entire appointment may last around 30 minutes when including check-in and preparation time.
If your mammogram results show an abnormality, your doctor will likely recommend additional studies, such as a ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy to confirm the findings. It is important to follow through with these recommendations to determine the results.