Breast cancer screening through mammography

Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breasts. It is offered free of charge every two years to all healthy women between the ages of 50 and 75 for the early detection of breast cancer. This programme is called mammography screening. Together with the clinical breast examination at the gynaecologist’s practice, which is a statutory health insurance service for women aged 30 and over, mammography is the second important pillar of breast cancer screening. It enables the detection of early forms of breast cancer that cannot be felt.

Since July 2024, women up to the age of 75 have been able to participate in mammography screening for the early detection of breast cancer. This expansion allows more women to benefit from this useful examination. Previously, only women between the ages of 50 and 69 were able to participate every two years. 

Before all women aged 70 and over can be invited to an appointment at a specific screening unit, extensive organisational, personnel, technical and legislative preparations are necessary in the individual federal states.

After that, all women in the new age group should receive an invitation within two years. Those who do not want to wait can also make their own mammography appointment with the inviting centre.

You can find out which centre is responsible for you here(your primary residence is decisive). The prerequisite is that, when you request an appointment, the last early detection mammogram must have been at least 22 months ago.

Women between the ages of 50 and 69 are at the highest risk of developing breast cancer. However, if they go for a mammography, women in this age group also have the best chance of a favourable prognosis, the gentlest possible treatment and a higher life expectancy. This has been shown in studies. That is why the benefits are greatest for women between the ages of 50 and 69.

Every woman evaluates the examination differently for herself. Therefore, there is no general answer to whether mammography is right for every woman in terms of the early detection of breast cancer. It is a personal decision that every woman should make for herself. In order to provide you with the best possible support, we have put together all the essential information here.

We cover the costs of breast cancer early detection screening every two years for women between the ages of 50 and 69, and since July 2024 even up to the age of 75.

Women between the ages of 70 and 75 are not currently receiving invitations for screening. You can register yourself with the relevant regional centre (‘self-invitation’). They will check whether you are eligible and arrange a medical appointment. You can find out which centre is responsible for you here(your primary residence is decisive). 

Website of Mammography Cooperation Group