Experts recommend earlier screening as breast cancer rates rise in younger women
UC professor and breast radiologist speaks with WLWT
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."
Featured image at top: A woman receives a mammogram. Photo/Rhoda Baer, National Cancer Institute via Unsplash
Related Stories
University of Cincinnati gets $1.1M for AI physician training
January 30, 2026
The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has received a four-year, $1.1 million grant to explore using artificial intelligence and personalized learning to improve physician education.
Hoxworth Blood Center teams up with Cyclones in February for biggest blood drive event of year
January 30, 2026
Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is teaming up with the Cyclones and other local businesses to host its annual Queen City Blood Drive on Feb. 9-11 at Heritage Bank Center. If you can’t attend this event, Hoxworth encourages you to still make donating a #HoxworthHabit and give blood this February.
Research findings may lead to new test for endometriosis
January 30, 2026
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women worldwide, and many go years before diagnosis. Symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding during menstruation and/or sexual intercourse, bloating and fatigue. Katie Burns’ research at the University of Cincinnati is focused on creating a new, non-invasive test for endometriosis, using white blood cells as biomarkers. Burns, PhD, is an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences in the College of Medicine.