All Women Recommended to Start Getting Annual Mammograms at Age 40

9/25/2025

Early Detection and Treatment of Breast Cancer Gives Best Chance of Survival

The American College of Radiology now recommends women who are at average risk for breast cancer get screening mammograms annually starting at age 40 for women of average risk. The recommendations are in response to the increase in breast cancer diagnoses in younger women and high mortality rates in African American women.

Here in Texas, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer – at nearly double the rate of lung cancer, the next most common cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), across the U.S., 272,454 new female breast cancer cases were reported in 2021. Unfortunately that number grew the following year when 279,731 women in the U.S. received their breast cancer diagnoses in 2022.

Women with strong family histories of breast cancer, African Americans and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent should have a risk assessment at age 25 to see if a screening mammogram is needed before they are 40. Women who were previously diagnosed with breast cancer are recommended to be screened with magnetic resonance imaging, an MRI.

“The best chance for survival of any cancer is early diagnosis and treatment,” said Yvonne Ruiz, FNP-C with DeTar Medical Group. “Mammograms can detect cancer before any symptoms, such as a lump, or spreading of the disease occurs, which can increase the likelihood of recovery.”

Early Detection Saves Lives
While mortality from breast cancer has declined in recent years, it remains the second most common cancer causing death in women. Lung cancer is the most common. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the 5-year relative survival rate of people with localized breast cancer is 99% if the disease is detected early.

The ACS also shared that women who have regular mammograms are more likely to have breast cancer found earlier, are less likely to need aggressive treatments like surgery to remove the entire breast (mastectomy) and chemotherapy, and are more likely to be cured.

Fortunately, a screening mammogram can help detect breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages. DeTar Healthcare System is encouraging women to schedule their screening now, because when breast cancer is detected early, life-saving treatment can begin right away.

To schedule a mammogram, call (361) 788-6141 or schedule your mammogram online at www.detar.com and click on ‘Online Scheduling.' To find a primary care doctor, visit mydetardoctor.com.

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