When Should I Begin Screening for Breast Cancer?

About 1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lives. Because of this, it is important to know your risk and the age you should start screening for breast cancer. The earlier cancer is caught, the sooner and more effectively it can be treated. 

You can start looking for signs of breast cancer by doing monthly self-examinations. Get to know what your breasts normally look and feel like, and then look for any lumps or other irregularities during your examinations. You can also have your healthcare provider perform a breast exam at your yearly checkups. 

When and how often you should professionally screen for breast cancer can best be determined by your risk for developing breast cancer. 

Average Risk

Women with an average risk for breast cancer:

• Do not have a personal history or family history of breast cancer.

• Do not personally have or have a family history of any genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing cancer (ex. BRCA1 or BRCA2).

• Did not have radiation therapy on their chest when they were young.

Women who fall into this category between the ages of 40-44 have the option of participating in yearly screenings. It is recommended that those aged 45-54 should be screened yearly, while women 55 years and older should be screened every 1-2 years if they are in good health and expect to live at least 10 more years. 

High Risk

Women with a high risk for breast cancer:

• Have a personal or family history of breast cancer.

• Have the gene mutation BRCA1 or BRCA2, or a first-degree relative with the mutation.

• Have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or a first-degree relative with any of these syndromes.

• Had radiation therapy on their chest when they were young.

High-risk women should begin yearly screenings at the age of 30. We recommend getting an MRI each year, alternating with a mammogram every 6 months. 

Help us find the 1 in 8. Explore our site for more information on breast cancer and breast cancer awareness and to schedule a mammogram.