American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the recommended age range for beginning routine mammogram screening?

1. 40 to 49 years

2. 50 to 74 years

3. 30 to 44 years

4. 55 to 70 years

The correct answer is: 50 to 74 years

Routine mammogram screening is primarily recommended to start at age 50 and continue until age 74. This age range is supported by various guidelines, including those from the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The rationale behind starting at age 50 is that the incidence of breast cancer increases significantly with age, and screening at this age and older has been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality. In addition, studies indicate that the benefits of screening are more pronounced in women aged 50-74, as they typically have a higher incidence of detectable breast cancer. This age range promotes a balance between the benefits of early detection and the potential risks associated with screening, such as false positives and unnecessary biopsies. While some guidelines suggest considering individual risk factors for women in their 40s, routine screening for this younger demographic generally does not show the same level of benefit as it does for women starting at age 50. Thus, focusing on the 50 to 74 years age group for routine mammograms aligns with evidence-based practices aiming to maximize the benefits of early cancer detection while minimizing risks.