Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines

Cancer can be scary, and not something you want to think about if you don’t have to. But taking a proactive approach to cancer screening is a way to take charge of your health – and your future.

Knowing your breasts and taking care of them is key to finding breast cancer early, when it’s most easily treatable. This includes breast self-examinations and screening mammograms.

cancer-screening-breast-promo.jpg

Mammograms, the most effective breast cancer screening method, can catch 80% to 90% of breast cancers in women before they have symptoms.

cancer-screening-breast-when.jpg

When to Screen for Breast Cancer

Your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized breast cancer screening plan based on your age and risk. OSF HealthCare recommends the following breast cancer screening guidelines:

  • Women with an average risk of breast cancer should get a regular screening mammogram starting at age 40. Some women may need to start screening early if they have a family history or other risk factors.
  • Women over the age of 50 should continue getting mammograms either yearly or every other year, depending on how often your doctor recommends.
  • Women over the age of 75 should continue with regular mammograms as long as you are in good health.

Breast Cancer Risk Factors

It’s important to be aware of your breast cancer risk factors so you can take steps to minimize your risk.

These risk factors include:

  • Race or ethnicity – White people have a slightly increased risk than Black people
  • Age – Most people with invasive cancer are older than age 55.
  • History of breast cancer – Having had breast cancer increases your risk for future cancer
  • Family history of breast cancer – Having a parent, sibling or child with breast cancer increases your risk
  • Benign breast disease – Having certain benign breast conditions increases your risk
  • Early menstrual periods – Women whose periods began before age 12 have a slightly higher risk
  • Late menopause – Women who begin menopause after age 55 are at a slightly higher risk
  • Dense breast tissue – Women with dense breast tissue are at increased risk.
  • Drinking alcohol – The more you drink, the higher your risk
  • Gene mutations – Certain inherited changes in genes are another risk factor

If you have any of these risk factors, talk with your doctor to see if they recommend a screening mammogram before age 40.

Loading component...

Mammogram Breast Health Genetic Cancer Risk

Breast Cancer Health Risk Assessment

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. This quick assessment estimates your five-year and lifetime breast cancer risk. It looks at your lifestyle, genetics and personal health history. This makes it easy to talk to your provider about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and when to start screenings.

Take the assessment

Related Information