Breast Cancer 2025: Key Updates in Screening, Treatment, and Technology

A short read by the All for Med Team.

Author

All For Med
October 22, 2025

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Researchers and clinicians are refining early detection, modernizing treatment, and exploring how artificial intelligence can reshape screening.

At a Glance (Global Scale)

  • Most common cancer in women worldwide

  • Estimated 670,000 deaths in 2022

  • Around 0.5–1% of cases occur in men

Screening & Early Detection

When to Screen (U.S.):

  • Mammograms are now recommended every 2 years for women ages 40–74 (Grade B).

  • There’s not enough evidence to support:

    • Routine screening ≥75 years, or

    • Routine ultrasound/MRI solely due to breast density.

Dense Breast Notifications (U.S.):

  • As of September 10, 2024, mammography centers must:

    • Include a breast density notice in patient letters

    • Report density directly to clinicians.

  • The goal: to help patients discuss whether additional screening is needed.

Canada Snapshot (2024)

  • Estimated diagnoses: 30,500 women, 290 men

  • Estimated deaths: around 5,500

Treatment Advances to Know:

1: Antibody–Drug Conjugates (ADCs)

  • Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd, Enhertu)

    • Expands treatment options for HER2-low or ultralow HR+ metastatic disease after endocrine therapy

    • Effective beyond traditional HER2-positive tumors

  • Datopotamab deruxtecan (Dato-DXd)

    • Approved in early 2025 for HR-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer

    • Option after endocrine therapy and chemotherapy

2: Targeted Endocrine Therapy

  • Now part of routine care for PIK3CA, AKT1, or PTEN-altered HR+/HER2– breast cancers

  • Marks a move toward more personalized endocrine therapy

AI in Breast Screening

  • Large studies show AI-assisted mammogram reading can maintain detection accuracy while reducing radiologist workload.

  • Trials are testing AI-guided triage to MRI for select high-risk patients after negative mammograms.

  • For now, supplemental MRI is not recommended for everyone.

What Patients Can Do Now

  • Know your baseline risk:

    • Review your family history, prior chest radiation, and genetic factors.

    • Discuss starting mammograms at age 40 with your healthcare provider.

  • Understand your mammogram letter:

    • If it mentions dense breasts, ask your provider whether additional imaging is right for you.

    • Not everyone with dense tissue needs more tests; it is case-specific.

  • For metastatic HR+ disease:

    • Ask if newer options like T-DXd, Dato-DXd, or capivasertib fit your tumor profile.

  • In Canada, Check your provincial screening program for age and interval updates.

The Takeaway

2025 makes a turning point in breast cancer care, characterized with earlier detection, smarter technology, and targeted treatments extending survival and improving quality of life. Staying informed and discussing your personal risk with your care team remain the most powerful steps you can take.

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