Eligibility
What are the breast cancer screening ages?
The recommended breast screening age for women is 50–74 years.
The below table outlines eligibility by age.
No. Women under 40 are not eligible to attend BreastScreen NSW.
If you’re aged under 40 and are concerned about your risk of breast cancer (including family history) you should discuss this with your doctor.
Women under 40 are at a much lower risk of developing breast cancer.2527
Breast screening can be less effective for women under 40 due to higher breast density, which can make it harder to see small cancers on an x-ray.
Yes, you are eligible and welcome to attend BreastScreen NSW.
Please talk to your doctor first about your personal risk and to find out if breast screening is right for you.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are recommended to screen from age 40.
More than 75% of breast cancers are found in women aged over 50.1471 While cancer can occur in younger women aged 40-50, it is less common.
It’s important to note that breast screening can be less effective for women in this age group. This is because higher breast density can make it more difficult to see a cancer on the x-ray.
Yes. You will be invited to screen every two years from the age of 50.
More than 75% of breast cancers occur in women over 50.1471 Regular breast screens are the best way to find breast cancer early.
Yes, you are eligible and welcome to attend BreastScreen NSW.
You will no longer receive invitations from age 75 however you can contact us to make a booking. Please talk to your doctor to find out if breast screening is right for you.
Can I attend BreastScreen NSW if:
- I have a lump in my breast?
- I have a family history of breast cancer?
- I have previously had breast cancer?
- I have breast implants?
- I am pregnant?
- I am breastfeeding?
Have more questions? Check out our breast screening FAQs.
Understand this important cancer screening test.
Find out the risks of breast cancer.
Know what you should look out for.
What to expect before during and after your breast screen.
Know the facts and risks.
