Get Screened Starting at Age 40

Breast cancer happens when cells are not growing normally in one or both of your breasts. Screening tests can help find breast cancer early. They can find some cancers that are too small to feel or before they cause other symptoms. Breast cancer may be easier to treat when it’s found early.

Having concerns about breast cancer is common. That’s why it’s important to talk with your primary care provider* (PCP) about when to start and how often to get screened for breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Screening Is Covered by Medi-Cal

You can get screened for breast cancer every other year if you are aged 40 to 74.

Screening tests can find breast cancer early, before you have symptoms like a lump. Finding it early helps reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer. Mammograms are the best screening test for people at average risk of breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is led by health experts who decide on the best way to stop diseases. They also give guidance on how to avoid diseases or find them early.

Now, the Task Force recommends all women get screened for breast cancer every other year, starting at the age of 40 and until age 74.

Talk with your PCP to see if you may have a higher risk for breast cancer. Ask how often you should get screened based on your own risk. Women under 40 years old may be able to get breast cancer screenings if they have certain risks or symptoms.

*Your primary care provider (PCP) is the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.