Saskatchewan Further Expands Breast Cancer Screening Eligibility Starting June 30th

- Media Release, SaskCancer

July 2, 2025

An important change in breast cancer screening eligibility has now taken effect in Saskatchewan. Women aged 45 and older can now access screening mammograms. This change aims to improve early detection of breast cancer and is part of a phased strategy to gradually lower the age for screening to 40 over the next 12 months.

“Screening mammograms are one of the best ways to catch breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “Our government is committed to making sure women in Saskatchewan have access to safe, high-quality breast health care and the support they need, right in their own communities.”

With this new phase, even more women will have the opportunity for early detection, further contributing to the approximately 75 per cent of breast cancers diagnosed in the early stages through the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency’s Screening Program for Breast Cancer, now called BreastCheck.

"Starting breast screening at age 45 is a powerful step in taking control of your health," said Karen Efthimiou, Vice President of Population Health, Quality and Research at the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency. "Early detection means more treatment options and better outcomes. It saves lives. Don’t wait for symptoms — be proactive and get screened."

"Providing screening mammography to eligible individuals starting at age 45 is a meaningful step toward making early breast cancer detection more accessible and inclusive,” said Bryan Witt, Vice President, Provincial Clinical and Support Services, Saskatchewan Health Authority. “Behind every screening is someone’s mother, sister, daughter or friend — and early detection can make all the difference in improving outcomes and saving lives."

A breast screening mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast that plays an important role in finding breast cancer early. Most healthy women should have a screening mammogram every two years. A health-care provider's referral is not required to book an appointment.

To be eligible, women must be of the appropriate age at the time of booking, and:

• have no breast symptoms, such as lumps, bloody nipple discharge or skin changes;
• do not have breast implants;
• not be in active follow-up for breast cancer; and
• have been breast cancer-free for the last five years.

Women who qualify can schedule their mammogram at any of the eight designated screening locations throughout Saskatchewan. Additionally, the Mobile Mammography Unit continues to serve rural and remote areas throughout Saskatchewan every year.

Recently, breast screening sites in Regina and Saskatoon enhanced their breast screening capacity by adding an additional mammography machine at each location. The new machines, funded through over $2 million raised by the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan, will help ensure timely breast screening as more of the population becomes eligible.

Screening mammograms are designed for healthy women, while diagnostic mammograms are for those with breast symptoms.

Women who experience breast symptoms or concerns at any age, or who would like to know more about their risk for breast cancer, should speak with a health-care provider or go to a walk-in clinic to discuss next steps.

For information regarding screening appointments, locations and operating hours, individuals can call BreastCheck toll-free 1-855-584-8228. To learn more, visit saskcancer.ca/BreastCheck.