On occasion over the years, I have a colleague contribute to the blog. Dr Jeane is a naturopathic physician practicing in northern California and is a naturopathic oncology expert. I asked her to clarify the current breast cancer screening guidelines, and highlight the concern about cancers, including breast cancer, in younger women. Thank you, Dr Jeane.
Guest contributor: LaDeana Jeane, ND, FABNO/ www.noliamed.com
Breast Cancer Screening Updates
According to the American Cancer Society (2025), over the past 31 years, cancer mortality rates have declined by 34%. However, recent data indicate a significant increase in cancer incidence among young adults under 50, with pronounced racial disparities underscoring the urgent need for earlier and equitable screening programs. This trend is especially concerning for women: cancer rates in those under 50 are now 82% higher than their male counterparts, up from 51% in 2002. Unfortunately, cancers in younger populations tend to be more aggressive and are often diagnosed at later stages, negatively impacting treatment outcomes.
Breast cancer is among the most common malignancies rising in prevalence among younger women. In response to increasing incidence and to address disparities, screening guidelines are adapting to support earlier detection. Major organizations now agree and recommend initiating breast cancer screening at an earlier age to improve outcomes and promote health equity. In 2024, the US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) and others updated their guidelines to recommend starting breast cancer screening in average-risk patients by age 40, rather than 50. To identify women at high risk, guidelines recommend that all women undergo a breast cancer risk assessment by age 25, which allows for individualized screening recommendations; breast and chest cancer screening for transgender and non-binary individuals also presents unique clinical considerations requiring personalized assessments and tailored screening recommendations, some are outlined by the American College of Radiology.
Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines
| Organization | Starting Age | Frequency | Additional Details |
| USPSTF | 40 | Every 2 years | Discontinue screening at age 75 |
| NCCN | 40 | Annual | Annual screening mammogram with tomosynthesis; supplemental screening for dense breasts should be considered. No specified age to discontinue screening. |
| ACOG | 40 | Every 1-2 years | Shared decision-making emphasized; No specified age to discontinue screening. |
| ACS | 40 | Varies by age | 40-44: Optional every 1-2 years 45-54: Annual 55+: Annual or biennial Continue screening if life expectancy ≥10 years |
Citation:
Siegel RL, Kratzer TB, Giaquinto AN, Sung H, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2025. CA Cancer J Clin. 2025;75(1):10-45. doi:10.3322/caac.21871. Published online January 16, 2025
