Breast cancer screening should start at the age of 40, according to the Canadian Cancer Society, which wants all provinces and territories to lower the starting age for screening.

 

 

The current guideline of 50, for screening for those at average risk for breast cancer, was set by a national task force.

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care is expected to revise that advice later this month, however, the cancer society says it’s ultimately up to provinces and territories.

Some already pay for mammograms beginning at 40.

Ontario will as of this fall.

There’s growing evidence that starting screening at that age would detect more cases earlier, when chances of successful treatment are better.

The cancer society says it’s critical for women across Canada to have the same access.

It says one-in-eight women is expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.