what age for first mammogram
Figure 3.1 shows the breast cancer screening recommendations for women at average risk. Mammography in women ages 40 to 49 may save lives, but the benefit is less than for older women. Individual study findings on the benefits of mammography vary [ 4,16 ].
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for changes that are not normal. A mammogram allows the doctor to have a closer look for changes in breast tissue that cannot be felt during a breast exam. Women ages 50 to 74 years should get a mammogram every 2 years. Women younger than age 50 should talk to a doctor about when to start and how often to have a mammogram.