The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has recently updated its breast cancer screening guidelines to include women aged 40 to 74, recommending biennial mammograms for this age group. However, the guidelines do not provide recommendations for women older than 74, raising concerns among experts.
Some experts argue that older women should not be excluded from screening recommendations, as they have an increased life expectancy and may still benefit from early detection. The lack of research in clinical trials for women over 74 is cited as a reason for their exclusion from recommendations.
While risks of false positives and overdiagnosis are potential harms of screening older women, experts believe that the benefits outweigh the risks. Women beyond age 74 have the option to continue screening if they choose, and it should be covered by insurance.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Cancer Society (ACS), and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) all recommend mammograms starting at age 40. ACOG emphasizes that age alone should not dictate the decision to continue or discontinue screening; it should be based on a shared decision-making process informed by the woman’s health status and longevity.
Dr. Wanda Nicholson, chair of the USPSTF, acknowledged the limited research available for women over 74 and encouraged women in this age group to discuss preventive care with their healthcare professionals. The USPSTF stated that more evidence is needed for screening recommendations for women over 74. Stay tuned to Jala News for more updates on this topic.
