What is the recommended screening for breast cancer?

The recommended screening for breast cancer includes mammography every 1-2 years for women aged 50 to 74. This recommendation is based on extensive research and guidelines from organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society. The rationale is that regular mammography in this age group has been shown to significantly reduce breast cancer mortality by detecting tumors early when they are more treatable and before they become symptomatic.

In contrast, while ultrasound can be useful in certain situations, particularly for women with dense breast tissue or for further evaluation of abnormalities, it is not the primary screening tool recommended for the general population. Annual physical exams alone, starting at age 30, do not effectively screen for breast cancer, as they typically do not include imaging techniques that can detect tumors. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is usually reserved for women who are at high risk due to genetic factors or previous breast cancer history; it is not recommended as routine screening for all women after menopause. Thus, the most evidence-based and widely accepted approach for breast cancer screening in the general population is the biennial mammography for women aged 50 to 74.