Eligible women aged between 45 and 69 can get a free mammogram (a kind of breast check) every 2 years. This is part of a programme run by BreastScreen Aotearoa.

If you:

• are aged 45 to 69
• have no symptoms of breast cancer
• have not had a mammogram from another provider within the last 12 months
• are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
• are eligible for public health services in New Zealand (check on the Ministry of Health website)

then you can get a free mammogram every 2 years – sign up now.

You can choose whether or not to join BreastScreen Aotearoa and have regular mammograms. To help you decide, here is some information on the benefits and harms.

If you have had breast cancer before, you can sign up 5 years after your breast cancer was diagnosed. Before that time, your doctor or specialist will make sure you have regular check ups.

If you do have breast symptoms you’re worried about, see your doctor – don’t wait for your next mammogram appointment!

Preparing for your mammogram

Go to Preparing for your mammogram for advice on what to expect – including if you need change your appointment, what happens at your appointment, and tips to make things easier.

After your mammogram

If anything needs checking after your mammogram, we’ll invite you to come back for further assessment. This is also free. You can find out more at After your mammogram.

For most women, no cancer will be found, and we’ll invite you to come for another mammogram in 2 years.

If cancer is found then you will be offered treatment through your public hospital. Treatment is free. Find out more at Treatment.

Not eligible?

There are other publicly funded options available if you are not eligible for the free 2-yearly mammograms. Ask your doctor next time you see them.