October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a timely reminder about the importance of breast cancer screenings, especially in light of new guidelines.
With a focus on early detection and making screenings more accessible, particularly for women in the 40 to 74 age range, updates to breast cancer screening guidelines were introduced in May.
“We now recommend women begin screening at age 40, instead of the previous advice to start at 50,” says Dr. Adam Jonas, internal medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente‘s Everett Medical Center.
“Women who are at low risk should get screened every two years, while those at higher risk–due to factors like family history or smoking – should consider annual screenings.”
The updated guidelines come from the US Preventive Services Task Force and reflect new technology improving our ability to accurately detect breast cancer early and an increased incidence in breast cancer in women between the ages of 40 and 50.
These two factors have changed the risk-benefit analysis about when to start screening.
Personalizing care based on risk
One key element of the new guidelines is the emphasis on understanding individual risk. Family history plays a crucial role in determining screening frequency. “For women with a first-degree relative, like a mother or sibling, who’s had breast cancer, we might recommend additional genetic screening or more frequent mammograms,” Jonas explains.
Other risk factors include lifestyle choices such as smoking and reproductive history.
“Women who have never had children or started having children later in life may be at a slightly higher risk, and smoking also increases risk significantly,” he adds.
For women identified as high-risk, more intensive options like MRI mammography may be considered. However, “there isn’t enough data yet to suggest who exactly benefits from MRI screenings, so this is usually reserved for those with a more defined risk.”
Screenings are safe and save lives
“The process might require further imaging or a biopsy, which can be unsettling,” says Dr. Jonas. “But early detection significantly improves survival rates, and catching cancer early means less invasive treatments.”
Dr. Jonas emphasizes the life-saving potential of mammograms: “The risks are minimal compared to the benefits.”
Self-exams and awareness
Beyond formal screenings, self-exams and partner exams can also play an important role. “We encourage women to familiarize themselves with their bodies. If you notice any changes in your breast tissue – whether it’s a lump, change in shape or skin changes – it’s important to get checked by your provider right away,” Jonas says.
Additionally, Kaiser Permanente is making efforts to expand breast cancer awareness to all individuals who may be at risk, regardless of gender identity.
“Anyone with breast tissue can develop breast cancer, so it’s crucial to be vigilant,” he explains. For trans women, Kaiser Permanente encourages regular check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers to ensure personalized care.
The path forward
Early detection saves lives, and this as we near October, Kaiser Permanente encourages all women between 40 and 49 to speak with their healthcare providers about scheduling their mammogram.
“Make this month the time to prioritize your health,” Jonas urges. “Whether you’re starting screenings or staying on top of them, we’re here to help you every step of the way.”
For more information, visit kaiserpermanente.org, or follow Kaiser Permanente on Facebook or Instagram.
