Breast cancer screening

Because some forms of breast cancer are more aggressive than others, don't delay quick and accurate screening customised to you.

How often should you be screened for breast cancer?

When you should begin screening for breast cancer and how often depends on many risk factors. Women with average risk of breast cancer generally start receiving mammograms at age 40 and have one every two years, though professional medical groups differ on their recommendations.

Depending on the type of risk and makeup of your body, your doctor may also recommend magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in addition to mammography.

Risk factors

Risk factors for breast cancer include:

Being female
Increasing age
A personal history of breast conditions
A personal history of breast cancer
A family history of breast cancer
Inherited genes that increase cancer risk
Radiation exposure
Obesity
Beginning your period at a younger age
Beginning menopause at an older age
Having your first child at an older age
Having never been pregnant
Postmenopausal hormone therapy
Drinking alcohol

What does breast cancer screening involve?

There are three basic forms of breast cancer screening:

Breast exam. During a breast exam, your doctor will check your breasts and lymph nodes in your armpit for lumps or other abnormalities.
Mammogram. Mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that looks for abnormalities.
Breast MRI. People with dense breast tissue may receive a breast MRI. The process involves an injection of dye and magnetic and radio waves to create images of the interior of the breast. One of its advantages is it doesn't use radiation.

Mayo Clinic Healthcare will work with you to determine if screening is right for you and, if so, which options best suit your needs and preferences.

Learn more about breast cancer at MayoClinic.org