Physicians with the U. S. Preventive Services Task Force, while explaining the revised mammogram guidelines issued, said that women in their 40s should start getting screened for breast cancer whenever they want, and do not need to hold off till they are 50. The development came at a House hearing on Wednesday, when the panel said that the recommendation issued last month were "poorly worded" and managed to confuse everyone.

The panel said that it had not meant to suggest that screening was completely unnecessary for women below 50, merely that it is more effective when done for the 50-74 age group.

"Many women will decide to have mammogram screening at age 40. The task force supports those decisions. The task force communication was poor", said Diana Pettiti, a Physician and Vice Chair of the task force.

Issued on November 16, the new guidelines recommended that contrary to the popular belief that mammograms should be undertaken starting 40, women can hold off till 50 years of age. Also the frequency can be reduced, and monthly at-home self examinations for breast cancer are not necessary. The Republicans had challenged and slammed these recommendations, stating that these were further proof that the Government's proposed revamp of the healthcare system would "lead to rationing of medical care".

To clear its stance, the panel has been quick to clarify the misunderstanding, and has also asserted that women all over are free to choose how they approach and design their healthcare and screenings routine.