Breast Cancer Screening: Who, Why, When?

October 9, 2024

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Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in Canada, but it’s the most common cancer among women. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Fortunately, 82% of breast cancer cases in women are diagnosed early, increasing the likelihood of survival. In fact, nearly 90% of women in Canada survive for at least five years after a breast cancer diagnosis. Much of this positive survival rate is due to screening for the disease. Not only does breast cancer screening increase survival, it provides other benefits as well. When breast cancer is detected early, it can mean less treatment and a shorter time recovering,

What exactly is screening?

Screening means checking for a disease before you show any signs of having that disease. In the case of breast cancer, this usually means examining your own breasts on a regular basis. If you note anything of concern, the next step is to consult your doctor to see if further testing is needed. Many doctors also perform a breast exam during a physical or pelvic exam appointment.

Your goal should be to start assessing your breast health before any warning signs appear, so it is important to begin your breast self-exams on a regular basis right away. This will help you to become familiar with the look and feel of your breasts, which will make it easier to spot any changes.

You should also be aware of the warning signs of breast cancer so you can watch for them. Although these changes can be caused by conditions other than cancer, if you discover any of them, you should see your doctor right away. Warning signs include:

Any change in the size or shape of your breast
Flaky skin or redness on your breast
Irritation or dimpling of the skin on your breast
A new lump in your breast or underarm (armpit)
Thickening or swelling in any part of your breast
Nipple discharge other than breast milk
Pain in your breast

Mammograms

In addition to examining your breasts regularly, you should consider having a mammogram, a type of X-ray of your breast. Talk to your doctor to find out when and how often you should have this test. In many regions you can also call your local mammography clinic or breast screening centre to book a mammogram without a doctor’s referral.

Breast cancer screening is recommended to begin at age 40 for most women, Two-Spirit, trans, and gender diverse individuals with no symptoms.

Individuals between the ages of 40 and 74 with a first degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) who have had breast cancer, are almost twice as likely to develop the disease themselves. Because family history is a significant risk factor, annual mammograms are often recommended for this group. Additional screenings or genetic counselling may also be considered.

Individuals 50 to 74 years old without a family history of breast cancer are encouraged to continue to get a mammogram every 2 years. Once reaching 75 years of age, the recommendation may change to every 2 to 3 years or less. A discussion with a health care professional will weigh the continued benefits and limitations of mammography.

The regulations surrounding mammograms differ somewhat from province to province, so you are encouraged to discuss having a mammogram with your healthcare provider to see if you would require a doctor’s referral to have a mammogram and how often you should undergo this screening procedure. You can also call your local mammography clinic if you have questions.

Breast and chest health for all genders

All individuals should also be mindful of their breast or chest health. Although male breast cancer is rare, it does occur. Each year in Canada about 220 males will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 66 will die from it.

The key take away

Everyone should regularly check their breasts or chest and consult a healthcare provider if they notice any changes, lumps or other unusual symptoms. Early detection can lead to better treatment options and improved health outcomes.