A 2025 Guide to Breast Cancer Screenings

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, and early detection saves lives. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to highlight the importance of regular breast cancer screenings, why they matter, and what the latest guidelines recommend.

Even if you feel healthy, regular mammograms and other screenings are one of the most powerful tools you can use to protect yourself.

What Is Breast Cancer Screening?

Breast cancer screening means checking the breasts for signs of cancer before symptoms develop. The main goal is to find cancer early, when it is small, has not spread, and is most treatable.

The most common screening method is the mammogram, a special X-ray that can detect tumors years before they can be felt. In some cases, women at higher risk may also need ultrasound or MRI scans for additional screening.

Current Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines

Screening rules differ slightly depending on the medical organization. Here’s a breakdown for women at average risk:

• Ages 25-39: Clinical breast exams are recommended every 1-3 years.
• Ages 40 and older: Clinic breast exams are recommended every year 
• Age 40-75: Average recommendations for mammogram screenings are every 1-2 years beginning at age 40. Screening should continue until age 75. 

High-risk women, those with a family history of breast cancer, dense breasts, or genetic changes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, may need to start earlier and undergo more frequent screenings, sometimes as young as 25–30.

Why Screening Is So Important

Screenings don’t prevent cancer, but they save lives by finding cancer early. The benefits include:

• Early Detection: Finding cancer in the earliest stages makes treatment more effective.
• Better Survival Rates: When cancer is discovered before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is as high as 99%.
• Less Aggressive Treatment: Smaller cancers often require less surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
• Peace of Mind: Regular mammograms can reassure you that nothing has changed since your last check.

Possible Risks of Screening

Like all medical tests, breast cancer screening has some risks. These include:

• False Positives: Sometimes mammograms detect changes that are not cancer, leading to more tests and stress.
• False Negatives: Rarely, a mammogram may miss a cancer.
• Overdiagnosis: Screening may detect slow-growing cancers that may never have caused symptoms but still lead to treatment.
• Radiation Exposure: Mammograms use a very small amount of radiation, but the risk from regular screening is considered extremely low compared to the benefits.

Screening Options Beyond Mammograms

For most women, mammograms are the gold standard, but other tests may be needed for high-risk individuals:

• Breast MRI: This procedure uses magnets and radio waves for highly detailed images; it is often used for women with a strong family history or genetic risks.
• Ultrasound: Helps evaluate dense breast tissue or suspicious findings from a mammogram.
• Clinical Breast Exam (CBE): A physical exam by a healthcare provider; no longer recommended as a routine screening tool but may still be used in some settings.
• Self-Awareness: While breast self-exams are no longer formally recommended, being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel is important. Report any changes (such as lumps, dimpling, or nipple discharge) to your doctor right away.

Understanding Your Risk

Not all women face the same risk of breast cancer. Your risk may be higher if you have:

• A family history of breast cancer (especially in a parent, sibling, or child).
• An inherited gene mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.
• A personal history of breast cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Past radiation therapy to the chest before age 30.
• Dense breast tissue.

If you fall into a higher-risk group, your provider may recommend starting screening earlier, screening more often, or adding an MRI or ultrasound to your plan.

Tips for a Smooth Mammogram Experience

• Schedule smart: Avoid the week before your period, when breasts may be more tender.
• Skip deodorant or powder: These can interfere with the X-ray images.
• Wear a two-piece outfit: You’ll only need to remove your top.
• Bring past results: If possible, bring prior mammograms so the radiologist can compare images.

The Bottom Line

Breast cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to save lives. While the exact age to begin may vary depending on personal risk factors, most women should start annual mammograms by age 45. Women at higher risk may need to start sooner.

Remember: early detection allows easier treatment and better outcomes. Talk to your healthcare provider about when to start screenings and which tests are right for you.

Take Control of Your Health

At the Gabrielson Clinic for Women, your health is our priority. Our team provides comprehensive breast cancer screenings and personalized care to help protect your long-term health.

Schedule your mammogram today and take the most important step toward early detection and peace of mind.