CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

At what age should women begin screening mammograms?

1. 35

2. 40

3. 45

4. 50

The correct answer is: 40

The recommended age for women to begin screening mammograms is 40. This guideline is supported by various health organizations, including the American Cancer Society, which suggests that women should have the option to start mammograms at 40, while also emphasizing the importance of considering personal risk factors and family history. Starting screenings at this age allows for the early detection of breast cancer, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. While some organizations recommend starting at 50 for average-risk women, beginning screenings at 40 provides a crucial opportunity for earlier intervention, especially for those with higher risk factors such as family history of breast cancer or genetic predispositions. Therefore, recognizing the age of 40 as the starting point for regular screenings is vital in the context of preventive health care for women.