When Should You Get a Mammogram? A New Jersey Guide
For most people at average risk, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends a screening mammogram every other year from age 40 through age 74. Your own schedule may be different depending on your history, so here’s what to know — including how to get screened for free or at low cost in New Jersey.
When Should You Get a Mammogram? The Short Answer
A screening mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast used to look for breast cancer before you have any symptoms. Finding cancer early matters: when breast cancer is found while still only in the breast, the 5-year relative survival rate is over 99%, according to the American Cancer Society.
In 2024, the USPSTF lowered its recommended starting age for routine screening from 50 to 40, though individual risk factors may affect screening recommendations. That matters because breast cancer rates are rising a little faster in younger women: the American Cancer Society reports an increase of about 1.4% per year in women under 50.
Mammogram Guidelines by Age
Two major organizations publish screening guidelines for people at average risk. They’re slightly different, which is why it helps to talk with your provider.
| Age | USPSTF (2024) | American Cancer Society |
|---|---|---|
| Under 40 | Not routinely recommended for average risk | Not routinely recommended for average risk |
| 40–44 | Every 2 years | Optional: may start yearly mammograms |
| 45–54 | Every 2 years | Every year |
| 55–74 | Every 2 years | Every 1–2 years (your choice) |
| 75+ | Not enough evidence to recommend for or against | Continue while in good health with 10+ years of life expectancy |
These guidelines apply to women and other people assigned female at birth. Transgender and nonbinary people should talk with a provider about the screening that’s right for their body and history — see our LGBTQ+ health resources.
Who May Need to Start Earlier
The guidelines above are for people at average risk. If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, a known genetic mutation or other risk factors, talk to your provider about when to start and how often to get screened. The American Cancer Society explains who may be at higher risk and how screening differs.
And remember: screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice a lump or another change, don’t wait for your next scheduled mammogram and reach out to your healthcare provider.
Mammograms Around Menopause
October is also Menopause Awareness Month. Breast cancer risk goes up with age, and many people reach menopause right in the years when regular mammograms matter most. Starting menopause later in life (after 55) is linked to higher breast cancer risk, and if you use hormone therapy for menopause symptoms, ask your provider whether it affects your risk or your screening schedule. Breast tenderness or lumpiness can also change as hormones shift — any new change is still worth a check.
What to Expect During a Mammogram
- How long it takes: the imaging itself usually takes just a few minutes; plan for a longer visit with check-in.
- What happens: a technologist positions each breast on the machine and presses it between two plates for a few seconds to get a clear image.
- Does it hurt? Many people feel pressure or brief discomfort. Scheduling for the week after your period, when breasts are less tender, can help.
- How to prepare: skip deodorant, lotion or powder on your chest and underarms that day (they can show up on the image), and wear a two-piece outfit.
- Results: if something needs a closer look, you’ll be called back for more imaging. Most callbacks don’t mean cancer.
How to Get a Free or Low-Cost Mammogram in New Jersey
Cost should never keep you from getting screened. Here are your options:
- Insurance: Marketplace plans must cover screening mammograms every one to two years for women 40 and older with no copay or coinsurance when you use an in-network provider. Most other plans follow the same rule — check with yours.
- NJCEED (free screening): New Jersey’s Cancer Education and Early Detection program provides breast cancer screening, follow-up and help getting into treatment for residents who are uninsured or underinsured with household income at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. Call 1-800-328-3838 and press 3, or find an NJCEED screening site.
- Family planning health centers: NJFPL-supported health centers in all 21 counties offer breast cancer screening as part of free or low-cost care, regardless of income, identity or insurance status. A provider can do a clinical breast exam and refer you to an imaging center for your mammogram. You may also qualify for family planning coverage through NJ Plan First.
While you’re there, ask whether you’re due for cervical cancer screening, too. Read more about cancer screening at a family planning visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I get my first mammogram?
For people at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends starting at age 40 and screening every other year through age 74. If you have a family history, a known genetic mutation or other higher-risk factors, talk to your provider about starting earlier.
How often should you get a mammogram?
The USPSTF recommends every two years from ages 40 to 74. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms from 45 to 54 and every one to two years from 55 on, with the option to start yearly at 40. Your provider can help you choose the right schedule.
Are mammograms free with insurance?
Most plans, including Marketplace plans, must cover screening mammograms every one to two years for women 40 and older without a copay or coinsurance when you use an in-network provider. Diagnostic mammograms (to check a symptom) may have different costs, so ask your plan.
How can I get a free mammogram in New Jersey?
If you’re uninsured or underinsured and your household income is at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may qualify for free screening through NJCEED. Call 1-800-328-3838 and press 3, or start at an NJFPL-supported family planning health center, which can do a breast exam and help connect you to screening.
The bottom line: If you’re 40 or older, talk to a provider about starting regular mammograms — and if cost is a barrier, NJCEED and NJFPL-supported health centers can help you get screened.
Sources
- U.S. Preventive Services Task Force — Breast Cancer: Screening (2024)
- American Cancer Society — Recommendations for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer
- HealthCare.gov — Preventive Care Benefits for Women
- New Jersey Department of Health — NJ Cancer Education and Early Detection (NJCEED)
- American Cancer Society — Survival Rates for Breast Cancer
- American Cancer Society — Key Statistics for Breast Cancer
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you have symptoms or questions about your health, talk with a healthcare provider.