When Should Women Start Getting Mammograms? Understanding the Age 40 Recommendation
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
Breast cancer screening saves lives. One of the most common questions women ask is when they should begin getting mammograms. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we follow ACOG's evidence-based guidance to help women make informed decisions about breast health. For most women at average risk, routine screening mammography should begin at age 40.
Why Mammograms Matter
Mammograms are specialized X-ray studies designed to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms such as lumps or pain appear. Early detection allows for less invasive treatment and significantly improves survival outcomes.
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women. While risk increases with age, a meaningful number of breast cancers occur in women in their 40s, which is why early screening is so important.
ACOG Recommendations: Start at Age 40
ACOG recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer be offered screening mammography starting at age 40 and continue annually or biennially based on shared decision making between the patient and clinician.
Key points from ACOG guidance include:
Screening should begin at age 40 for average-risk women
Mammograms should continue as long as a woman is in good health and has a life expectancy of at least 10 years
Screening frequency should be individualized based on patient values, preferences, and risk factors
At Complete Healthcare, we strongly support initiating screening at age 40 because earlier detection improves outcomes and provides patients with reassurance.
What Does Average Risk Mean?
A woman is considered at average risk if she:
Has no personal history of breast cancer
Has no known genetic mutation associated with breast cancer, such as BRCA
Has no strong family history of early breast cancer
Has not had chest radiation therapy at a young age
Women with higher risk factors may need earlier or additional screening, including breast MRI. These decisions are individualized and guided by clinical assessment.
Why Age 40 Is Important
Starting mammograms at age 40 captures cancers that might otherwise go undetected for years. Breast tissue in younger women is often denser, making physical exams alone unreliable. Mammography allows clinicians to identify subtle changes long before they can be felt.
Research has shown that beginning screening at age 40 reduces breast cancer mortality. While false positives can occur, the benefits of early detection outweigh the risks for most women.
Annual vs Biennial Screening
ACOG supports shared decision-making when determining screening frequency. Some women prefer annual mammograms for maximal surveillance, while others may choose every two years.
Factors that may favor annual screening include:
Dense breast tissue
Family history of breast cancer
Patient anxiety or preference for closer monitoring
Our providers discuss these factors openly so women can make confident, informed decisions.
Mammograms and Breast Density
Dense breast tissue is common and can both increase breast cancer risk and make mammograms harder to interpret. Women with dense breasts may benefit from supplemental imaging such as ultrasound or advanced mammography techniques.
If you are told you have dense breasts, it does not mean something is wrong, but it does mean the screening strategy should be individualized.
What to Expect During a Mammogram
A mammogram is a brief outpatient test that typically takes less than 20 minutes. Some women experience mild discomfort from compression, but the procedure is quick and well-tolerated.
Most results are normal. If additional imaging is needed, it does not automatically mean cancer. Follow-up imaging is common and often reassuring.
Personalized Care at Complete Healthcare
At Complete Healthcare, breast health is an essential part of comprehensive women’s care. We emphasize prevention, early detection, and clear communication. Our providers follow ACOG guidance while tailoring recommendations to each patient’s individual risk profile and preferences.
If you are approaching age 40 or have questions about your breast cancer risk, scheduling a conversation with your provider can help clarify the best screening plan for you.
Early screening is not just about detecting disease. It is about peace of mind, proactive care, and protecting your long-term health.
Complete Healthcare - Obstetrics and Gynecology
509-392-6700
