Breast health screening, density and when it should happen!
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Mammogram screening is a very effective way to look at the health of breast tissue and assess for concerns, especially cancer.
It is recommended as a screening test (meaning you do them at a regular interval even without concerns) as they often catch concerns before someone might notice any changes themselves.
The recommendation for screening in the past in Ontario was to start at 50 years old and repeat every 2 years until 74 years old if at an average risk.
HOWEVER, in October 2024 the guidelines changed to allow screening from 40-49 years old. The recommendation in my opinion was presented like, ‘If you WANT you could access screening from 40-49 years old”. Making it feel like an optional thing and not that important.
However there is real reason to consider screening at this age!
17% of all breast cancer diagnoses are within women 40-49 years old. If 1000 women in this age category are screened with mammograms, it can prevent up to 9 deaths from breast cancer over their lifetime. While women >50 years old have a higher overall risk of breast cancer, women <50 tend to have more aggressive types of breast cancer. Catching concerns early allows for early intervention and better treatment outcomes.
If you’re between 40-74 years old, you don’t even need your doctor to make the referral. You can book an appointment directly with an imaging clinic linked here. If you’re in a high risk category - you can ask your doctor for a referral to the High Risk Ontario Breast Screening Program - in this program the screening frequency and types of imaging change. If you’re unsure, fill out this questionnaire linked here and have a conversation with your family doctor!
The other really valuable information that a mammogram gives is your grade of breast density. If you’ve had a mammogram take a look at your most recent report to see if it was A, B, C, or D.
A is the lowest risk category and D is the highest risk category. The risk of breast cancer in someone with category D breast density is significantly higher than category A. These categories can change overtime. Knowing your risk category can help you to make informed choices about things that might increase or decrease breast cancer risk. It’s an essential consideration if considering menopause hormone therapy. If you’re in Category D - mammograms happen annually and MRI and/or ultrasound are also used to visualize the breast tissue more effectively.
Breast density isn’t the only thing that increases/decreases breast cancer risk, it’s not a factor that you can change, but is an important consideration to have when making health decisions. Stay tuned for next week for things that ARE in your control in terms of supporting breast health!
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, naturopathic doctor, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.
Hi, I’m Dr. Janine, ND
I’m a Naturopathic Doctor currently practicing in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
I truly believe that our enjoyment of life is closely tied to how we feel physically. When we’re healthy, we can take on anything. But when we feel off, even the simplest tasks become overwhelming. I’ve been through hormonal shifts, sleepless nights as a parent, and the stress of balancing everything. But I also know that with the right strategy, we can go from surviving to thriving—and create a healthy, thriving family in the process.
I look forward to meeting you soon.
- Dr. Janine, ND
Follow me on social media, @dr.janine.nd