Women at average risk of breast cancer should generally start getting mammograms at age 40. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every other year starting at 40 through age 74. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) also updated its guidance in 2025 to recommend starting screening at age 40, with mammograms every 1 to 2 years based on shared decision-making with a healthcare provider. Women at higher risk might need to begin screenings earlier, sometimes as early as age 25 to 30, depending on factors like family history, genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1/BRCA2), or previous chest radiation. Talking with a doctor to assess individual risk and create a tailored screening plan is important. In summary:
- Average risk: Start mammograms at 40, typically every 1 or 2 years.
- High risk: May start earlier, sometimes from 25 or 30, with possible additional imaging.
These recommendations balance the benefits of early detection against the risks and harms of screening such as false positives and unnecessary testing.
