Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What’s New in 2026 and When to Screen

Quick answer

For women at average risk, the American Cancer Society (ACS) says you can choose to start yearly mammograms at 40, should screen yearly from 45 to 54, and can move to every two years at 55. Higher risk may mean starting earlier. Your provider can set your timeline.

In the research: AI reads mammograms, with limits

The American Cancer Society’s 2026 estimates for the U.S. are:

321,910

New cases of invasive breast cancer in women

60,730

New cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), an early, non-invasive form

According to ACS figures summarized by the National Breast Cancer Foundation, about two-thirds of cases are caught at a localized stage. When caught early, the five-year survival rate is over 99%.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that women ages 50 to 74 who get a mammogram every two years have a 26% lower risk of dying from breast cancer than women who don’t get screened.

The biggest screening story of the year concerns artificial intelligence. In February, The Lancet published results from the MASAI trial in Sweden. It was the first randomized trial of AI in breast screening, with about 106,000 women. Here is what The ASCO Post reported:

More cancers found: AI-supported reading had higher sensitivity (80.5% vs. 73.8%), with no rise in false alarms.
Fewer cancers between screenings: The “interval cancer” rate was 1.55 per 1,000 women with AI, against 1.76 per 1,000 with standard double reading.
A human is still in the loop: At least one radiologist reads every scan. The authors say the results don’t support replacing doctors with AI.

What this means for you:

AI is a promising tool, but the evidence is still developing. It doesn’t change when you should be screened. Ask your imaging facility whether it uses AI-assisted reading. The test itself and your schedule stay the same.

Your screening timeline

Guidance for women at average risk, based on the American Cancer Society.

Ages 40 to 44

Your choice. You can start yearly mammograms. Talk with your provider about family history.

Ages 45 to 54

Every year. Yearly mammograms are recommended.

Ages 55 and up

Every 1 to 2 years. Switch to every other year or keep going yearly, while you’re in good health.

Know your risk

Higher risk can change when you start and how you’re screened.

Average risk

Higher risk

What happens at a physical for a woman

A woman’s annual physical is the easiest place to stay on schedule. A typical visit covers:

Health history, medications, and family history
Vitals: blood pressure, heart rate, height, and weight
A breast health conversation, including whether a mammogram is due
Age-based screenings such as cervical cancer, cholesterol, and blood sugar
Vaccines and preventive care
Mood, sleep, and stress

Want to be ready? Our annual exam checklist shows what to bring. If a mammogram is due, your provider can place the order and follow up on the results.

Three myths, cleared up

Myth: No family history means no need to screen.

Fact: Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. Age-based screening applies to everyone.

Myth: Mammograms are painful.

Fact: Most women feel brief pressure, not lasting pain. Booking the week after your period can help.

Myth: A lump is the only warning sign.

Fact: Skin changes, nipple changes, and size changes count too.

This month’s to-do

Check when your last mammogram was.
If you’re 40 or older, ask your provider which schedule fits your risk.
Book your visit: Women’s Annual Physical Exam at Alpharetta, Lawrenceville, or any North Georgia location.

Coming in next issue: Diabetes Awareness Month and managing blood sugar this winter.

This letter is for education and isn’t a substitute for personal medical advice. Please talk with a licensed provider about the plan that’s right for you.