Breast Cancer Screening

August 3, 2026, 7:48 am

Approximately 1 in 8 women (13%) in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer at some point in their life. While advances in screening and treatment have reduced the overall risk of death from the disease, the number of people diagnosed with breast cancer continues to rise.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women in the U.S. About 32% of all newly diagnosed cancers in women are breast cancer. In 2026, approximately 321,910 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

The United States Preventative Task Force recommends that women ages 40 through 74 get screened for breast cancer by getting a mammogram every 2 years.

A mammogram is an x-ray that is specifically designed to look at breast tissue. It can detect cancer before a lump becomes big enough to feel, or even before a patient notices any symptoms. Finding breast cancer before a large lump develops means that it will be easier to treat.

An annual mammogram may be covered by your health plan. Visit your doctor to talk about any concerns you have and ask about scheduling your screening.

To learn more about breast cancer, prevention, and more screening techniques, visit CoxHealth’s Women’s Health webpage on breast care.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, CoxHealth’s breast cancer services page can help you learn about different treatment options, find support, and get contact information for consultations and Cancer Care facilities in the area, including the High Risk Breast Clinic.

Connect with others: Hulston Cancer Center offers a free support group for breast cancer thrivers and survivors called Reach Together.

Sources:

https://www.breastcancer.org/facts-statistics

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/statistics/index.htm

https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening

https://www.coxhealth.com/services/womens-health/breast-care/