Healthy Communities

Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening

Screening Guidelines for All Ages of Women

Regular screening for breast and cervical cancer is important for good health. Guidelines for regular screening and early detection of breast and cervical cancer are as follows:

Mammography Screening Recommendations

Age American Cancer Society US Preventative Services Task Force BreastCare
Under 40 Not recommended Not recommended Not recommended
40-49 40-44: The decision should be up to each woman. Women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits.
45-49: Annually
The decision should be up to each woman. Women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits. The decision should be up to each woman. Women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits.
50 and older 50-54: Annually
55 and over: Every two years
Every two years Every one to two years

Women at high risk: Women with a higher risk of breast cancer should talk with their doctors about the best approach for them. This might mean starting mammograms when you are younger, having extra tests or having more frequent exams.

Age-Appropriate Screening Guidelines for Good Cervical Health*

*2012 Consensus Guidelines-American Cancer Society (ACS), American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP), American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

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Arkansas Department of Health
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