Key takeaways
- High survival rates: When breast cancer is found early and remains localized, the 5-year relative survival rate is more than 99%.1
- Screening recommendations: Women should start personal risk assessments at age 25, and annual screenings are recommended for women at age 40.2
- Recognizing symptoms: Watch for warning signs like new breast or underarm lumps, skin dimpling or redness, nipple inversion or unusual discharge.
- Conviva Senior Primary Care®: We support older adults through 50% more one-on-one time with healthcare providers, same-day appointments, 24/7 healthcare provider access and interdisciplinary care coordination.
Breast cancer can be overwhelming, but early detection can make a meaningful difference. Understanding the warning signs, staying up to date with recommended screenings and knowing your personal risk can help you take an active role in your health. In this guide, we'll cover when to get screened, symptoms to watch for and how Conviva Senior Primary Care supports older adults with personalized, compassionate care every step of the way.
Why early detection matters
Breast cancer can affect anyone, and hearing concerns about your breast health can feel unsettling. The good news is that early detection can make a meaningful difference. When breast cancer is detected early, before it has spread beyond the breast, the 5-year relative survival rate exceeds 99%, giving individuals more treatment options and the best chance for positive outcomes.1 Regular screenings and paying attention to changes in your body can lead to earlier detection, often resulting in less extensive treatment and a better quality of life.
Breast cancer is common, with about 1 in 8 women developing invasive breast cancer during their lifetime, but awareness is important for everyone.3 Although male breast cancer accounts for less than 1% of all cases, recognizing potential warning signs and seeking medical care when something doesn't feel right can lead to timely evaluation and peace of mind.3
Understanding the signs to watch for is an important part of staying proactive about your breast health and knowing when to talk with your healthcare provider.
How to check for breast cancer and early warning signs
Knowing what's normal for your body can make it easier to spot changes early and start important conversations with your healthcare provider. Rather than relying on a strict monthly self-exam routine, experts encourage "breast self-awareness," which means becoming familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel.
Pay attention to changes such as:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
- Skin dimpling, redness or swelling
- Nipple pain or inversion
- Unusual nipple discharge
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
It's also important to remember that these symptoms are not always caused by cancer. Common noncancerous conditions, such as cysts and fibroadenomas, can cause similar changes. If you notice anything unusual or persistent, it's best to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Breast cancer screening guidelines by age and risk level
Breast cancer screening is not one-size-fits-all. The right screening plan depends on your age, personal health history and family risk factors. Regular screenings can help detect breast cancer before symptoms appear, when treatment is often most effective.
For women at average risk:4
- Age 25+: Start conversations with your healthcare provider about your personal and family health history.
- Ages 25–39: Get a clinical breast exam from a healthcare provider at least every 3 years.
- Age 40+: Schedule annual screening mammograms and continue yearly clinical breast exams.
For women at higher risk:4
- Inherited genetic mutations: Breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) and BRCA2 gene mutations can increase breast cancer risk.
- Family history: Having a mother, sister or daughter diagnosed with breast cancer, especially before menopause, may warrant earlier screening.
- Enhanced screening: Some high-risk individuals may begin annual breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) along with mammograms around age 30.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual risk factors to create a screening plan that's right for you and supports your long-term health.
Next steps after screening and diagnostic tests
Getting called back after a screening mammogram can feel unsettling, but it doesn't automatically mean you have breast cancer. In many cases, additional testing is needed to get a clearer picture, and many findings turn out to be noncancerous. Depending on your results, your healthcare provider may recommend 1 or more of the following tests:
- Diagnostic mammogram: Uses additional, more detailed images to take a closer look at an area of concern found during a screening mammogram.
- Breast ultrasound: Uses sound waves to help determine whether a lump is a fluid-filled cyst or a solid mass.
- Breast MRI: Provides detailed images of breast tissue and may be recommended for people with dense breasts or a higher risk of breast cancer.
- Biopsy: If imaging shows a suspicious area, a biopsy may be performed to collect a small tissue sample. This is the only way to confirm whether cancer is present.
While waiting for results can be stressful, remember that follow-up testing is an important step in getting answers and making sure you receive the right care as early as possible.
Frequently asked questions
- At what age should I start getting annual mammograms?
Most women at average risk should begin annual mammograms at age 40. Those at higher risk may need to start earlier.
- Do breast self-exams replace the need for mammograms?
No. Being breast aware can help you notice changes, but mammograms are the best tool for detecting breast cancer early.
- What happens if I get called back after a screening mammogram?
A callback means more imaging is needed. Most findings turn out to be noncancerous conditions, such as cysts or fibroadenomas.
- How do inherited genetics affect my screening schedule?
If you have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation or a strong family history of breast cancer, your healthcare provider may recommend you start screening earlier and add breast MRIs.
How Conviva supports your health journey
Breast cancer screening is an important part of preventive care, especially as you get older. At Conviva®, our patients receive personalized, senior-focused care with 50% more one-on-one time with their healthcare provider, helping them stay on top of recommended screenings and health concerns. With coordinated care teams, same-day appointments, 24/7 healthcare provider access and support for managing chronic conditions, Conviva makes it easier to take a proactive approach to your long-term health and well-being.
Take control of your health today. Find a local Conviva center near you or call 844-332-6656 to speak with a care team member to set up senior primary care and preventive screenings.
Sources
- “Survival Rates for Breast Cancer,” American Cancer Society, accessed Oct. 8, 2026.
- “Breast Cancer Screening & Early Detection,” Susan G. Komen, accessed Oct. 8, 2026.
- “Early Signs of Breast Cancer,” The University of Kansas Cancer Center, July 9, 2020, last accessed Oct. 8, 2026.
- “American Cancer Society Recommendations for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer,” American Cancer Society, accessed Oct. 8, 2026.