Primary Care Screening for Breast Cancer

Primary Care Screening for Breast Cancer

Often, breast cancer can be detected before you notice any symptoms, changes or irregularities in your breasts. That’s why regular breast screening is an important way to protect your breast health.

Northwestern Medicine recommends the following screening guidelines to save the most lives:

• Women ages 40 to 54 should receive a mammogram annually.
• Women ages 55 and older can choose to receive mammograms every two years, or continue annually. Screening should continue past age 55 per the discretion of your primary care physician.

Your primary care physician may also conduct a clinical breast exam during your annual appointment. It’s important to be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel, and notify your primary care physician immediately if you detect any changes.

If you have a higher risk of breast cancer, your primary care physician may recommend a more frequent and extensive screening plan tailored to you. They may also refer you to the Northwestern Medicine Breast Risk Assessment and Prevention Program.