Screening for different age groups
Breast screening is most effective for women aged 50 to 74.
Not within that age group? Learn how – and why – breast screening recommendations vary across different ages.
Regardless of age, you will not be eligible to attend screening if you:
- Have been diagnosed with breast cancer within the last 5 years
- Are showing any breast symptoms
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you don’t have any breast tissue
Under 40
If you are under 40, you are not eligible for a breast screen with BreastScreen Victoria.
Your breast tissue is typically denser than that of older people. Because both dense breast tissue and breast cancer show up as white areas on x-rays, it is difficult to detect cancer in younger breast tissue during screening.
Research has also not provided evidence that breast screening reduces deaths from breast cancer in this age group. If you are concerned about any unusual changes or symptoms in your breast, consult a doctor immediately.
Between 40 and 49
You are eligible for free breast screens with us. We recommend only getting a breast screen after consulting with a doctor.
Because you are younger, your breast tissue is likely to be denser than that of older people, making it harder for breast screens to detect cancer. Breast cancer rates are also lower in this age range.
74 and over
We don’t send reminders once you are over 74. However, you are still eligible to screen with us for free.
When you are over 74, we understand that other health concerns may take priority. As such, we recommend getting a breast screen in consultation with a doctor based on your individual risk like family history and lifestyle.