A recent article compared the just released controversial U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations to the current American Cancer Society recommendations.
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
No routine screening mammograms for women 40-49 without risk factors. Screen every two years for women 50-74.
There is inadequate evidence to suggest whether digital mammography or MRI have any greater benefit than standard mammography in detecting breast cancer.
There is also inadequate evidence to suggest a clinical breast exam by a doctor or nurse is more beneficial than a standard mammogram.
Data suggest breast self-exams do not reduce breast cancer mortality.
(Did You Know? First-degree relatives who have had breast cancer, dense breast tissue, obesity, physical inactivity, prior radiation, not having children or breast feeding, and heavy alcohol use are among the risk factors that increase the chances of breast cancer.)
American Cancer Society
Women 40 and older should have a mammogram every year, earlier if there are risk factors.
Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam every three years and 40s and older every year as part of their annual exam.
Be sure to check with your doctor but until any of the Task Force findings become the standard in clinical practice make sure you do self-breast exams and get mammograms when indicated.