Breast cancer screening
Who to screen, mammography interval, and shared decision points.
Last reviewed January 4, 2026
- Who to screen
- Women ages 40-74 at average or moderately increased risk. Do not use this pathway for symptoms, prior breast cancer, known high-risk genetic syndromes, or prior chest radiation.
- Test and interval
- Screening mammography every 2-3 years for ages 40-74 when screening is chosen. Routine screening is not recommended after age 74.
- Shared decision
- Discuss absolute benefit, false positives, and potential overdiagnosis, especially for ages 40-49. Document the patient preference and recall interval.
- Additional imaging
- Do not use MRI or ultrasound as screening tests for women with dense breasts at average or moderately increased risk.
References
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