October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The Alberta Breast Cancer Screening Program is encouraging physicians to talk to eligible patients about the importance of breast cancer screening.
 
In 2022, Alberta lowered the recommended starting age for biennial screening mammograms for women at average risk from 50 to 45. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to talk with patients between the ages of 45 and 49 who may not be aware of this change.
 
In addition to lowering the recommended starting age, last year’s update to the Alberta breast cancer screening clinical practice guidelines includes recommendations for:
  • People who identify as transgender, non-binary, or gender diverse who would also benefit from screening, and
  • People who are at higher-than-average risk.
The Alberta Breast Cancer Screening Program works together with partners like the Alberta Society of Radiologists and healthcare providers to raise awareness about the importance of routine screening. Physicians are encouraged to recommend biennial screening mammograms to women who are at average risk beginning at age 45.
Visit screeningforlife.ca for clinical practice guidelines, information and resources.
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