How often should women aged 55 and older have mammogram screenings?

Women aged 55 and older are generally recommended to have mammogram screenings every 2 years, according to guidelines from organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This recommendation is based on a balance of benefits and potential harms associated with screening. Research has shown that biennial screening is effective in detecting breast cancer while also minimizing the risks of overdiagnosis and false positives that can occur with more frequent screenings.

By switching to every 2 years at age 55, women can continue to benefit from early detection of breast cancers while reducing the stress and potential follow-up procedures associated with annual screenings. This change in screening frequency reflects both the biological behaviors of breast cancer in older age groups and a focus on ensuring that screenings are beneficial without being overly burdensome.