Breast cancer detection guidelines for women aged 40 to 49 years: rationale for the American Cancer Society reaffirmation of recommendations. American Cancer Society

Abstract

Over the past year, the National Cancer Institute has altered its guidelines for early breast cancer screening by omitting any recommendation for mammography and clinical breast examination for women aged 40 to 49 years, while the American Cancer Society has reaffirmed its recommendation for these screening procedures in this age group. This article reviews the process and some of the evidence the American Cancer Society has relied upon in reaffirming its recommended guidelines for early breast cancer detection.