Mammography Testing Frequency, Ages to Screen Average Risk Women and Patient Outcomes

Authors

Samara Buck, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Nancy Reid, MHA, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

Since the inception of mammography, mortality from breast cancer has decreased. Yet the major governing bodies and leading organizations in women’s health disagree on age to start screening, stop screening, and frequency of mammography. The aim of this review is to condense the latest studies, data, guidelines, and recommendations available surrounding the age and frequency of mammography to ensure providers are giving patient-centered care that aligns with best outcomes for lower morbidity, mortality and improving quality of life years. In hopes of decreasing the confusion and focusing on patient outcomes, this review sought to answer the following question: In adult women aged 40 or older with average breast cancer risk, does undergoing screening mammography biennially instead of annually allow early cancer or tumor detection while maintaining cost-effectiveness and gaining quality-adjusted life-years (QALY)?

Recommended Citation

Buck S. Mammography Testing Frequency, Ages to Screen Average Risk Women and Patient Outcomes. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(2).