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Breast cancer screening: when and how often

Key points

  • Breast cancer screening means checking the breasts for cancer before there are any signs of it.
  • A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast.
  • The CDC (US) and the Office on Women's Health (US) say women aged 40 to 74 should get a mammogram every other year.
  • ODPHP (US) gives the same advice: every 2 years from age 40 to 74.
  • Women at higher than average risk may be given different screening advice.

What a mammogram is

The CDC (US) explains that breast cancer screening means checking the breasts for cancer before there are any signs or symptoms of it. [1]

A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breast, says ODPHP (US). The Office on Women's Health (US) adds that it is a low-dose x-ray exam. Doctors use it to look for changes in the breast that are not normal. [3] [2]

The Office on Women's Health (US) calls mammograms the best way to find breast changes you cannot feel. It also notes that the risk of harm is very slight, but repeated x-rays could cause cancer. [2]

When to start and how often

The CDC (US) says women aged 40 to 74 who are at average risk for breast cancer should be screened. It points to the US Preventive Services Task Force, which recommends a mammogram every 2 years for these women. [1]

The Office on Women's Health (US) says women aged 40 to 74 should get a mammogram every other year. ODPHP (US) agrees. It says that if you are 40 to 74 and have breasts, you should get a mammogram every 2 years. [2] [3]

When your risk is higher

The CDC (US) says different screening advice may be used for women at higher than average risk. The Office on Women's Health (US) says women with dense breasts may also have a higher risk of breast cancer. [1] [2]

The Office on Women's Health (US) also says women who have had breast cancer should follow their own provider's guidance. So should women at very high risk because of their genes. [2]

When to see a doctor

The CDC (US) advises asking your doctor which screening tests suit you, and when to have them. [1]

ODPHP (US) advises discussing with your doctor the timing and frequency of mammograms. [3]

The Office on Women's Health (US) says women who have had breast cancer should ask their provider how often to have mammograms. [2]

Sources

  1. CDC (US): Screening for Breast Cancer (opens in a new tab). Last updated September 22, 2026.
  2. Office on Women's Health (US): Mammograms (opens in a new tab). Last updated November 1, 2024.
  3. ODPHP (US): Get Screened for Breast Cancer (opens in a new tab). Last updated March 31, 2026.

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