At what age does the American Cancer Society recommend women start getting routine mammograms?

The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin receiving routine mammograms at the age of 40. This guideline is based on research indicating that breast cancer risk increases with age, particularly after 40. Early detection through regular mammograms can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment, as many breast cancers may not present symptoms in their early stages. While there are recommendations for earlier screenings for women with higher risk factors, the standard guideline for the general population starts at age 40, aligning with the goal of catching potential issues as early as possible. Regular screenings allow for timely intervention and have been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality rates.