Breast screening age lowered to 43
Mobile Mammography unit in SE Sask next four months, with stops in Estevan, Carnduff, Carlyle, and Moosomin
January 12, 2026, 4:08 pm
Nicole Taylor, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Saskatchewan women aged 43-plus are now eligible for screening mammograms without a doctor’s referral, as the Saskatchewan government continues to lower the age limit for screening mammograms.
As of January 1, women aged 43 and older in Saskatchewan are eligible for screening mammograms.
The change is meant to support early detection of breast cancer, and is part of a broader plan to gradually lower the screening age to 40 within the next six months.
“By lowering the breast cancer screening age, more Saskatchewan women will be able to receive an earlier diagnosis, leading to more lives saved,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said.
“Our government is putting patients first by supporting these investments ensuring women get the care they need closer to home.”
The eligibility change will increase the number of Saskatchewan women who can access early detection breast screening services, further supporting the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency’s BreastCheck screening program.
According to the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, approximately 75 per cent of breast cancers diagnosed in the province are detected in the early stages.
“We’re proud to again expand BreastCheck screening eligibility,” said Karen Efthimiou, Vice President of Population Health, Quality and Research at the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency.
“This initiative emphasizes our commitment to early detection, which leads to more treatment options and improves outcomes. We’re excited to invite women aged 43 and up to schedule their first screening mammogram.”
“Expanding breast screening eligibility to include women 43 years and older will empower even more women to make proactive, informed decisions about the best ways to protect their health,” said Bryan Witt, Vice President of Provincial Clinical and Support Services, Saskatchewan Health Authority.
“The best protection is early detection.”
Women can book an appointment without a referral from a health-care provider, as long as they are of the appropriate age at the time of booking and meet eligibility criteria:
• Have no breast symptoms, such as lumps, bloody nipple discharge or skin changes;
• Do not have breast implants;
• Are not in active followup for breast cancer; and
• Have been breast cancer-free for the last five years.
Most women are encouraged to undergo a screening mammogram every two years.
Eligible women can schedule their mammogram at one of the eight designated screening locations throughout Saskatchewan, or through the Mobile Mammography Unit, which will be at four communities in southeast Saskatchewan over the next four months.
Screening mammograms are routine examinations intended for women with no breast symptoms, while diagnostic mammograms are meant for those experiencing breast symptoms.
Women who have concerns about Breast Cancer or experience symptoms, regardless of their age, should seek medical advice.
Mobile unit in southeast Sask
The mobile mammography unit travels throughout rural and northern Saskatchewan and runs on a two-year cycle.
Appointments for the unit can be made approximately six weeks in advance of mobile visits.
You do not need a doctor’s referral to make an appointment for a screening mammogram.
Call toll-free at 1-855-584-8228 to book your appointment.
Here is where the unit will be this winter and spring:
Estevan
Ramada by Wyndham Estevan
January 5–February 20, 2026
Carnduff
Carnduff Memorial Park
February 23–March 6, 2026
Carlyle
Carlyle Curling Club
March 9–March 27, 2026
Moosomin
Canalta Hotel
March 30–April 24, 2026
Women can call 1-855-584-8228 to book a screening mammogram appointment or email ed.coordinators@saskcancer.ca for more information. Phones are answered between 8 am and 4:30 pm.
For more information on scheduling appointments, locations and operating hours, individuals can visit saskcancer.ca/BreastCheck.
