Nearly half of women surveyed still think breast cancer screening starts at 50
Nearly half of women eligible for breast cancer screening are confused on when exactly they should begin said screenings, according to new survey data.
The survey was the result of a collaboration between the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute. It was distributed in early April and included a sample of more than 1,000 women. Responses revealed that 44% of participants still believe they should begin breast cancer screening starting at age 50. While this assumption is in line with prior recommendations, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated its guidelines in 2024 to recommend women at average risk undergo biennial screening starting at age 40.
Other notable organizations, such as the American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging also endorse the age recommendations put forth by USPSTF, though they contend that annual screening is more appropriate. More recently, the American College of Physicians released its updated recommendations on breast cancer screening, which endorse biennial screening starting at age 50 for asymptomatic women at average risk. The latter garnered strong criticism from both ACR and SBI.
With these varying guidelines in mind, it is not difficult to understand why women might be confused about when they should begin undergoing screening mammograms, noted Alyssa Cubbison, DO, a breast radiologist at Ohio State University.
“Our biggest concern is ongoing confusion about screening guidelines,” Cubbison said. “For most women, breast cancer screening should begin with annual mammograms at age 40. Clear, accurate information helps women make informed decisions with their clinician and may lead to earlier detection.”
Responses to the survey also suggested that many women believe screening should start before 40; over 40% signaled support for screening starting at age 35. For some women—those with higher risks of developing cancer due to family history or genetic markers—beginning screening younger than 40 is appropriate, but not for those who are at average risk, Cubbison noted.
Another concerning finding from the survey was related to women skipping mammograms, even when they are informed on proper screening guidelines. Around 25% of women between the ages of 18 and 29 indicated that they would forego breast imaging until they developed symptoms, such as pain or a palpable lump.
Cubbison said she hopes these findings can be used proactively by providers to ensure their patients are accurately informed on what is best for their unique circumstances.
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In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.