How frequently should women age 50 undergo mammography for breast cancer screening?

The recommended frequency for mammography screening in women aged 50 is every 2 years. This guideline is based on numerous studies and recommendations from health organizations, which consider factors such as the balance between benefits and harms of screening, the incidence of breast cancer, and the advancements in imaging technologies.

Regular mammography has been shown to significantly reduce breast cancer mortality by allowing for early detection of tumors, which are often more treatable at earlier stages. Screening every 2 years strikes a balance, offering sufficient opportunity to catch breast cancer early while avoiding the potential overdiagnosis and unnecessary anxiety that can come from annual screenings.

While some women may be at higher risk and might benefit from earlier or more frequent screening, the general recommendation for the average-risk population is to start mammography at age 50 and continue every 2 years. This approach helps to ensure effective monitoring while minimizing the downsides associated with more frequent imaging.