New screening guidelines for breast cancer prevention fuel debate over mammograms

The first mammogram to screen for breast cancer was once a rite for women turning 40. Now patients face conflicting guidance over when they should begin such tests.|
MARY CALLAHAN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT?

Mammogram-screening guidelines for women of average risk

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Every year, 40 and older

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force:

Every other year, ages 50 to 74

Consult with doctor, 40 to 49

National Breast Cancer Coalition:

Every other year, ages 50 to 74

Consult with doctor, 40 to 49

American Cancer Society:

Consult with doctor, 40 to 45

Every year, ages 45 to 54

Every other year, 55 and older

National Comprehensive Cancer Network:

Every year, 40 and older

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center:

Every year, 40 and older

American College of Surgeons:

Every year, 40 and older

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Breast cancer-related symptoms that require attention include:

[ul: [li:Lump, hard, irregular knot or thickening in the breast or underarm] [li:Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast] [li:Change in breast size or shape] [li:Dimpling or puckering of skin] [li:Itchy, scaly sore or rash on nipple] [li:Pulling in nipple or other breast areas] [li:Nipple retraction] [li:Nipple discharge] [li:New spot of pain] ]

Source: Susan G. Komen and American Cancer Society

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Special Coverage: Breast Cancer Awareness

Mammogram-screening guidelines for women of average risk

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Every year, 40 and older

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force:

Every other year, ages 50 to 74

Consult with doctor, 40 to 49

National Breast Cancer Coalition:

Every other year, ages 50 to 74

Consult with doctor, 40 to 49

American Cancer Society:

Consult with doctor, 40 to 45

Every year, ages 45 to 54

Every other year, 55 and older

National Comprehensive Cancer Network:

Every year, 40 and older

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center:

Every year, 40 and older

American College of Surgeons:

Every year, 40 and older

___

Breast cancer-related symptoms that require attention include:

[ul: [li:Lump, hard, irregular knot or thickening in the breast or underarm] [li:Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast] [li:Change in breast size or shape] [li:Dimpling or puckering of skin] [li:Itchy, scaly sore or rash on nipple] [li:Pulling in nipple or other breast areas] [li:Nipple retraction] [li:Nipple discharge] [li:New spot of pain] ]

Source: Susan G. Komen and American Cancer Society

___

Special Coverage: Breast Cancer Awareness

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