Yearly breast MRI plus mammogram for women at high risk
Recommended for high-risk women; based on detection, not death rates.
What studies found
The American Cancer Society recommends a yearly MRI and mammogram, typically from age 30, for women with a lifetime risk of about 20% to 25% or higher, a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 change, chest radiation before 30, or certain inherited syndromes. It recommends against MRI screening when lifetime risk is under 15%.
The catch
Rung 3 describes the kind of evidence: the recommendation rests on studies of the cancers screening finds, not on large trials measuring deaths. It is still the guideline advice for high-risk women.
What to do
If you may be at high risk, ask for a formal risk assessment and whether MRI screening fits you.
Sources
Rung 3 of 5, Moderate: Consistent observational studies or small trials, not yet confirmed by large trials. How we score
Step by step
For the whole picture, from prevention and screening to treatment and life after, see the breast cancer page.
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