Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test

At what age should women begin regular mammography screening?

1. 30

2. 35

3. 40

4. 45

The correct answer is: 40

Regular mammography screening is recommended to begin at the age of 40 for women, as this age mark is supported by various health organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Starting screenings at this age balances the benefits of early detection of breast cancer with the potential risks of false positives and unnecessary interventions. At age 40, the likelihood of developing breast cancer begins to increase significantly, making it an essential period to begin regular screenings. The goal of these screenings is to identify any abnormalities as early as possible to improve treatment outcomes. Breast cancer can occur in younger women, but the incidence increases markedly after the age of 40, therefore making screening starting at this age particularly crucial for effective early detection and intervention. Mammography screenings may be personalized based on individual risk factors such as family history or genetic predisposition, but the general guideline is to initiate regular testing at 40 to help reduce mortality rates associated with breast cancer.