Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations

 

Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations

1. Women Aged 20–39 (Younger Women)

Breast Self-Awareness

  • Know how your breasts normally look and feel

  • Report any changes immediately

Clinical Breast Exam (CBE)

  • Every 1–3 years by a healthcare provider

2. Women Aged 40–49

Mammogram

  • Many guidelines recommend annual screening starting at age 40

  • Some suggest beginning between 40–45, depending on risk

Clinical Breast Exam

  • Optional, based on doctor recommendation

3. Women Aged 50–74

Mammogram

  • Every 1–2 years

  • Annual screening for higher accuracy is common

4. Women Above 75

  • Screening decisions depend on:

    • Overall health

    • Life expectancy

    • Doctor’s advice

High-Risk Women (Stronger Recommendations)

You may be high risk if you have:

  • BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations

  • Strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer

  • Prior chest radiation therapy (ages 10–30)

  • Certain high-risk breast conditions (e.g., atypical hyperplasia)

Recommended Tests

  • Annual mammogram starting at age 30 (sometimes earlier)

  • Annual breast MRI (in addition to mammogram)

  • Genetic counseling

Types of Screening Tests

1. Mammogram

  • Best method for early detection

  • Detects lumps years before they can be felt

2. Breast MRI (for high-risk women)

  • More sensitive than mammograms

  • Used along with mammography, not instead of it

3. Ultrasound

  • Used when mammogram results are unclear

  • Helpful for dense breast tissue

Important Notes

  • Screening does not prevent cancer, but it helps find it early when it’s most treatable.

  • Discuss with your doctor to customize the screening plan based on your age, risk level, and medical history.