Alberta's government announced on June 20, 2024, a plan to lower the eligibility age for free breast cancer screening mammograms from 50 to 40 for average-risk individuals. The change, expected to be implemented in early 2025, will allow Albertans aged 40-44 to access screening without a doctor's referral through Alberta Health Services' (AHS) Screen Test program. Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange stated the initiative aims to detect cancers earlier, potentially saving lives and improving health outcomes.
Currently, free screening mammograms are available to Albertans aged 50-74, while those aged 40-49 require a doctor's referral. The updated policy will remove the referral requirement for individuals aged 40-44 and broaden access to free screenings for an additional estimated 100,000 Albertans. This adjustment aligns with the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care's 2023 guidelines, which recommend screening for women aged 40-74.
To support this expanded program, Alberta Health is allocating an additional $8 million over four years, building on the existing $20 million annual budget for the Screen Test program. Premier Danielle Smith emphasized that earlier detection allows for earlier treatment, leading to better results. This policy change is part of an effort to modernize Alberta's health care system and improve access to vital preventative services for breast cancer.
