Who Should Get a Mammogram and How Often?

Each October, we pause to raise awareness of breast cancer, and one of the most important tools in detecting it early is the mammogram. 

At Nile Women’s Health Care in Roswell and Johns Creek, Georgia, we believe every woman should understand when screening makes sense, and how it changes depending on your life, risks, and health.

Mammograms don’t prevent cancer, but when used at the right times, they help catch it early, when treatment is more effective. But deciding when to start, how often to screen, and when to stop isn’t one-size-fits-all.

What is new in screening guidelines?

Recently, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) updated its guidance: individuals at average breast cancer risk should begin routine mammography at age 40.

That means earlier detection for more women, especially as breast cancer rates in the 40-49 age group have been rising slightly in recent years. 

For women aged 40 and above, ACOG recommends screening every 1 to 2 years, using shared decision-making with your clinician based on your personal risk factors. 

Other organizations, such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, also now recommend beginning mammography at 40 (biennially) for women up to age 74.

How age and risk shape your screening plan

Your screening schedule depends on more than just your birth year. Here’s how different factors come into play:

Average risk

If you don’t have a strong family history, genetic mutation, prior chest radiation, or other high-risk features, starting at 40 with screening every 1-2 years is now the standard guidance for many.

Higher-than-average risk

If you have BRCA mutations, a strong family history, dense breast tissue, or past radiation exposure to the chest, your screening may begin earlier and include additional tests like MRI or ultrasound.

Age and health status

Screening isn’t always indefinite. After around age 75, the decision to continue mammograms depends on your life expectancy, overall health, and whether you’d benefit from detecting cancers earlier.

Personal preference and values

Because mammography has potential downsides (false positives, anxiety, unnecessary biopsies), we emphasize shared decision-making — understanding both benefits and risks together.

Early warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

While screening is proactive, paying attention to changes in your breasts remains crucial. Report these to us without delay:

• New lump, thickening, or hardened area
• Unusual nipple discharge (clear or bloody)
• Persistent pain in one breast or nipple
• Skin changes — dimpling, puckering, redness
• Changes in breast shape or size, especially asymmetry

These signs don’t always signal cancer — but early evaluation lets us rule out serious causes or begin treatment sooner.

How we help you at Nile Women’s Health Care

Our goal is to partner with you through every stage of care. Here’s how we support you:

Personalized risk assessment

We consider your family history, genetics, and lifestyle factors to refine your screening plan.

Access to quality mammography and imaging

We coordinate with trusted imaging centers to ensure accuracy, timely results, and follow-up when needed.

Counseling and shared decision-making

We walk you through the benefits, risks, and alternatives so you feel confident in when and how often to screen.

Support beyond screening

If imaging picks up a concern, we guide you through diagnostic steps, referrals, and ongoing care with compassion and clarity.

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, know your numbers and your options. If you’re approaching age 40, already past it, or have unique risks, let’s talk about a mammogram schedule that fits you.

Call Nile Women’s Health Care to start your personalized screening discussion today.