Germany lowers breast cancer screening age to 45—but with a catch

Women in Germany can now access breast cancer screening through mammograms starting at age 45. This change follows updated guidelines aimed at earlier detection of the disease. However, those under 50 still face out-of-pocket costs, as statutory health insurers currently do not cover the procedure for this age group.

The new guideline allows women aged 45 to 49 to undergo mammograms, with experts concluding that early detection benefits outweigh potential radiation risks. Previously, screening was only available from age 50. If approved, the procedure will eventually become a standard insured benefit, but a final decision rests with the Federal Joint Committee, which has 18 months to review the proposal.

No federal state has yet introduced its own screening programme for women from age 45, as current sources provide no relevant updates on regional implementation. Additionally, the process has been streamlined—medical assistants (MFAs) can now perform mammograms without a doctor physically present, using remote IT supervision instead.

Mammograms are X-ray examinations specifically designed to identify breast cancer in its early stages. The shift aims to improve survival rates by catching the disease sooner, particularly for younger women at higher risk.

The updated guideline marks a step toward broader access to early breast cancer detection. Women aged 45 to 49 can now opt for mammograms, though they must cover the costs themselves for now. The Federal Joint Committee's upcoming decision will determine whether insurers will fund the procedure for this age group in the future.