Saskatchewan drops maximum age for screening mammograms from 43 to 40

Women aged 40 and older are now eligible for screening mammograms through Saskatchewan’s BreastCheck program.

The province has been gradually lowering the age requirement for the program through a phased approach that began in January of 2025, when the program was only open to women 50 and older. The reduction in the minimum age from 43 to 40 this week represents the final stage in that process.

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According to the Government of Saskatchewan, the change means about 76,000 more women are now eligible for the breast cancer screening service. In the province, about 75 per cent of breast cancers are detected at an early stage through screening programs, the province noted.

“The lowering of the screening age from 50 to 40 years of age over the past 18 months is putting patients first by ensuring more women across Saskatchewan can receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time,” Jeremy Cockrill, Saskatchewan’s health minister, said in a statement.

The screening is performed through a low-dose X-ray of breast tissue, the province explained, and women can book an appointment on their own or through a referral from a health provider. Along with the age requirement, women are eligible for screening if they have no breast symptoms, do not have breast implants and have been free of breast cancer for at least five years and are not in an active breast cancer follow-up process.

BreastCheck mammograms are routine examinations, the ministry of health noted, and are not diagnostic mammograms for those who are experiencing breast symptoms.

“Women who have concerns or experience symptoms, regardless of age, should speak with a health care provider or visit a walk-in clinic for further guidance,” the ministry said.

Most women should undergo a screening mammogram every two years, the ministry added. In Saskatchewan, the screening services are offered in eight locations, along with two mobile mammography units that travel to rural and northern communities.

“Regular screening is an important way to look after your health, as it can detect changes early, often before symptoms develop,” Karen Efthimiou, vice president of population health, quality and research with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, said in a statement.

“We encourage women to book their first screening mammogram and make it part of their routine care.”

Kevin Harem vice president of provincial, clinical and support services for the Saskatchewan Health Authority, said every woman deserves to know that the health system is working for their benefit.

“By opening breast screening to women starting at age 40, more individuals can take an active role in decisions regarding their breast health and participate in early detection,” Hare said in a statement.

“The women in our communities deserve nothing less, and the Saskatchewan Health Authority is proud to be part of making that happen.”