New Breast Screening Guideline
December 18, 2024
By Suad Abukar, Registered Nurse, Preventative Care Program (PCP)
Did you know?
In October 2024, the Ontario Breast Screening Program lowered the starting age for screenings from 50 to 40 years old. Individuals aged 40 and over can now receive an OHIP-covered mammogram without needing a referral from a doctor or nurse practitioner.
Who can participate?
The Ontario Breast Screening Program offers breast cancer screening to women, Two-Spirit people, trans people and non binary people ages 40 to 74 who qualify for the program.
Eligibility:
People ages 40 to 74 are eligible for screening if they:
• have no breast cancer symptoms
• have no personal history of breast cancer
• have not had a mastectomy (surgery to remove breast tissue)
• have not had a screening mammogram within the last 11 months
• if transfeminine, have used feminizing hormones for at least 5 years in a row
We Are Here to Help You Make Informed Health Decisions:
Early screening (40–49 years old) is recommended but not mandatory.
For assistance in making an informed decision regarding mammography and your health, please reach out to the Preventative Care Team at SCHC.
Contact us at: ambassador@schcontario.ca or (416)-847-4134
Want to Know Wait Times for Screening?
Check local wait times here: www.ontariohealth.ca/public-reporting/ontario-breast-screening-program-locations-and-mammogram-wait-times
Sources:
Breast cancer testing and prevention | ontario.ca
Breast Cancer Screening for People Ages 40 to 49: What You Need to Know | Cancer Care Ontario