Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer screening means looking for signs of breast cancer before there are any symptoms or problems. A mammogram is used for breast cancer screening. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It is the best way to find breast cancer early. This is when treatment may work best.
You should get a screening mammogram every other year from age 40 until age 74. If you are 40 or older, talk to your health care provider about getting a mammogram.
Getting a mammogram at least every two years is important because:
- most people with breast cancer don't have a family history of the disease.
- your risk for breast cancer increases as you age.
- breast cancer may not cause any symptoms.
- finding breast cancer early can save lives.
What if I don't have health insurance?
If you don't have insurance, you may be able to get a free mammogram through the New York State Cancer Services Program (CSP). If cancer is found, treatment may be covered for those with no health insurance and who qualify.
Call 1-866-442-CANCER (2262) to find a Cancer Services Program near you. The call is free, and operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Language translation is available.
You can also visit our Community Programs List to find your local Cancer Services Program by county or borough. You may call them directly.
Who should get a mammogram?
- Females
- People with dense breasts or other risk factors
- People with a family history of breast cancer
- Transgender men and nonbinary people assigned female at birth
- For more recommendations on breast cancer screening for transgender people, visit Guidelines for the Primary and Gender-Affirming Care of Transgender and Gender Nonbinary People
Talk to your health care provider right away if you have any problems with your breasts. Symptoms of breast cancer include:
- Swelling or dimpling of a breast
- A lump in your breast or underarm
- Irritation of skin on a breast
- Pain in your breast or nipple
- Discharge from a nipple
What if I don't have the time or money for a mammogram?
Many places that offer breast cancer screening are open late or on weekends to make it easier for you to get a mammogram appointment.
Also, New York State has a law that does not allow most of the State's health insurance plans to charge out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screening and diagnostic tests. Find out more about the law.
