Live Well: Get a check-up

Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) does regular screenings for a number of cancers, depending on your risk factors. In October 2024, the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) lowered the starting age for screening from age 50 to age 40.

You are eligible for screening if:

• you are aged 40 to 74
• you have no breast cancer symptoms
• you have no personal history of breast cancer
• you have not had a mastectomy (surgery to remove breast tissue)
• you have not had a screening mammogram within the last 11 months
• if transfeminine, you have used hormone therapy for at least 5 years in a row

For those aged 40-49, it’s recommended that you talk with your primary care provider about if and when you should start regular screening mammograms, depending on your personal risk of getting breast cancer, as well as the potential benefits and potential harms of early screening. If you are aged 50 to 74, the OBSP recommends that you get a mammogram every two years. 

Even if you’re not eligible for regular screening, you should seek medical advice if you notice any symptoms or changes in your breast or chest, such as a lump, ongoing redness, discharge or changes to your nipple. 

If you opt in to screening, contact an OBSP location directly, or call the toll-free Ontario appointment booking line at 1-800-668-9304.