Experts recommend earlier screening as breast cancer rates rise in younger women

As more people are being diagnosed with breast cancer at earlier ages, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the screening age from 50 years old to 40 this year.

The University of Cincinnati's Ann Brown, MD, told WLWT early detection remains the best prevention.

"Early detection makes such a difference when we're dealing with breast cancer," said Brown, associate professor of radiology at the UC College of Medicine and a UC Health breast radiologist. "We know that it leads to better outcomes in terms of survival, but also better treatment options."

A mammogram is the most accurate way to detect the disease, Brown said.

"Our number one tool against breast cancer is screening mammography, especially with the latest 3D technology," Brown said. "That's why we're recommending screening every year at least starting at age 40. And if you have additional risk factors, you may need to start screening earlier, and with an additional test coupled with the mammogram like a breast MRI."

Read or watch the WLWT story.

Featured image at top: A woman receives a mammogram. Photo/Rhoda Baer, National Cancer Institute via Unsplash