There is convincing evidence that screening with film mammography reduces breast cancer mortality, with a greater absolute reduction for women aged 50 to 74 years than for women aged 40 to 49 years. The strongest evidence for the greatest benefit is among women aged 60 to 69 years. Among women 75 years or older, evidence of benefits of mammography is lacking.
Recommended intervals for mammography screening may also vary on an individual basis, but there is a general consensus that every two years is the minimum frequency. However, it is recommended that women speak with their health care providers to determine on an individual basis the age at which to begin and end mammography screening and the frequency of these screenings.
For women who have had sporadic breast cancer the evidence supports regular history, physical examination, and mammography as the cornerstone of appropriate breast cancer follow-up. Women treated with breast-conserving therapy should have their first post-treatment mammogram no earlier than 6 months after definitive radiation therapy. Subsequent mammograms should be obtained every 6 to 12 months for surveillance of abnormalities. Mammography should be performed yearly if stability of mammographic findings is achieved after completion of loco regional therapy.
Disclaimer: Measures reported by WCHQ healthcare
organizations represent a specific aspect of care in relation to an
evidence-based standard, but are not clinical guidelines and do not establish
standards of care.
