Mammograms are the go-to screening method for high risk and middle-aged women. While most people agree to the benefits of screening and early detection, the debate of when average-risk women should start being screened has given the medical industry some whip lash – especially with reimbursement at stake.
The controversy continues as the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force announced their guidelines this week stating women between 50 and 74 years old should be screened every two years.
Just to review, the American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms starting when women turn 45-years-old, and when they turn 55, switching to a once every other year schedule.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend annual mammograms for women 40 years old and older.
Meanwhile, Congress decided last month insurers need to cover all costs for annual mammograms for women 40-year-old and older.
We want to hear your opinion – when should mammograms be scheduled for average-risk women? Comment below or email me at [email protected].
