Europe Breast Cancer Screening Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033

Introduction

Breast cancer remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Europe, accounting for a significant share of cancer diagnoses among women every year. As healthcare systems increasingly shift their focus from reactive treatment to preventive care, breast cancer screening has emerged as a cornerstone of early diagnosis and improved survival outcomes.

According to Renub Research, the Europe Breast Cancer Screening Market was valued at USD 1.12 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.43 billion by 2033, expanding at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.02% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033. This strong growth trajectory reflects the rising adoption of organized screening programs, advancements in imaging technologies, and growing public awareness about the importance of early cancer detection.

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Across Europe, national governments, healthcare providers, and diagnostic companies are working collaboratively to expand access to screening services, integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into diagnostics, and close screening gaps in underserved populations. Together, these efforts are transforming the breast cancer screening landscape and setting the stage for sustained market growth over the coming decade.

Europe Breast Cancer Screening Market Overview

Breast cancer screening refers to the use of medical tests and imaging technologies to detect breast cancer at an early stage—often before clinical symptoms become evident. Early detection dramatically improves treatment success rates, reduces mortality, and lowers long-term healthcare costs.

The most commonly used screening modalities across Europe include:

Mammography, the gold standard for population-based screening

Ultrasound, often used as a supplementary method for dense breast tissue

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), primarily for high-risk individuals

In recent years, AI-assisted diagnostics, digital breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography), and automated breast ultrasound systems (ABUS) have further enhanced detection accuracy and workflow efficiency.

European countries have long been leaders in preventive healthcare, and breast cancer screening is no exception. Most nations operate government-funded or subsidized screening programs, typically targeting women aged 50 to 74. With breast cancer incidence continuing to rise, these programs are being expanded to include younger high-risk populations and more personalized screening approaches.

Key Growth Drivers in the Europe Breast Cancer Screening Market

1. Strong Government Initiatives and Awareness Campaigns

Government-backed screening initiatives remain one of the most powerful drivers of market growth. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the Netherlands offer free or heavily subsidized mammograms through national healthcare systems.

At the European Union level, the EU Beating Cancer Plan, launched as part of the European Health Union, aims to ensure that 90% of eligible populations receive breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings. Updated screening guidelines adopted in 2022 have reinforced political commitment to early detection and prevention.

In parallel, non-profit organizations and advocacy groups—such as the European Breast Cancer Coalition—continue to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage participation in routine screening programs.

2. Technological Advancements in Screening Modalities

Innovation is reshaping breast cancer screening across Europe. The adoption of digital mammography, 3D tomosynthesis, and AI-powered image analysis has significantly improved diagnostic accuracy while reducing false positives and unnecessary biopsies.

Artificial intelligence, in particular, is playing a transformative role by assisting radiologists in detecting subtle abnormalities, prioritizing high-risk cases, and streamlining reporting workflows. In March 2025, GE HealthCare launched Invenia™ Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) Premium, a 3D ultrasound system enhanced with AI capabilities to improve supplemental screening for women with dense breast tissue.

As hospitals and diagnostic centers continue to modernize their imaging infrastructure, demand for advanced screening technologies is expected to rise steadily.

3. Rising Incidence of Breast Cancer Across Europe

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the WHO European Region. According to regional estimates, approximately 604,900 new breast cancer cases were reported in Europe in 2022.

An aging population, lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, and improved diagnostic reporting are contributing to higher incidence rates. This growing disease burden underscores the urgent need for widespread, regular screening—fueling sustained investment in screening infrastructure and services.

Challenges Facing the Europe Breast Cancer Screening Market

High Costs of Advanced Screening Technologies

Despite technological progress, the high cost of advanced imaging modalities—particularly MRI and 3D mammography systems—remains a barrier. Smaller hospitals and underfunded healthcare systems may struggle to afford the latest equipment, limiting adoption in certain regions.

Cost constraints can also lead to unequal access, with advanced screening options more readily available in private healthcare settings than in public facilities.

Screening Coverage Gaps and Regional Disparities

While Western and Northern Europe boast high screening participation rates, rural and underserved areas—particularly in parts of Eastern and Southern Europe—still face accessibility challenges.

Limited healthcare infrastructure, workforce shortages, and geographic barriers hinder regular screening in these regions. Mobile mammography units, tele-radiology, and AI-enabled remote diagnostics are helping to bridge these gaps, but disparities persist.

Europe Breast Cancer Screening Population Market

The expanding population of women eligible for breast cancer screening is a major contributor to market growth. Beyond routine age-based screening, European healthcare systems are increasingly embracing risk-based and personalized screening strategies.

Genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, family history assessments, and lifestyle risk profiling are enabling earlier and more targeted interventions. As preventive healthcare gains momentum, screening coverage is gradually expanding to include younger high-risk populations.

Segment Analysis by Screening Modality

Europe Breast Cancer Mammography Screening Market

Mammography continues to dominate the European breast cancer screening market. Nationwide mammography programs, supported by public funding, have significantly improved early detection rates.

The shift from analog to digital mammography and 3D tomosynthesis has enhanced image quality, reduced recall rates, and increased patient confidence. As governments continue to invest in screening infrastructure, mammography is expected to retain its leading market position.

Europe Breast Cancer MRI Screening Market

Breast MRI is primarily used for women at high risk of breast cancer, including those with genetic mutations or dense breast tissue. Its superior sensitivity makes it a valuable diagnostic tool, especially for early-stage tumors.

However, high costs, limited availability, and longer examination times restrict widespread adoption. MRI screening remains concentrated in specialized centers and private healthcare facilities, but gradual expansion is anticipated as technology becomes more accessible.

Europe Breast Cancer Ultrasound Screening Market

Ultrasound plays a crucial supplementary role in breast cancer screening, particularly for women with dense breast tissue where mammography sensitivity may be reduced.

The integration of automated breast ultrasound systems (ABUS) is improving consistency and diagnostic accuracy across Europe. Ultrasound’s affordability and safety profile make it an attractive option for expanding screening coverage, especially in resource-constrained settings.

Country-Wise Market Insights

Germany

Germany operates one of Europe’s most structured breast cancer screening programs, offering biennial mammography for women aged 50–69 under statutory health insurance. The country is also a leader in AI-driven diagnostics. In February 2023, deep-tech startup Vara appointed renowned radiologist Professor Katja Pinker-Domenig as lead medical advisor to enhance AI-based screening solutions globally.

France

France provides free mammography every two years for women aged 50–74. The healthcare system emphasizes early detection and has actively integrated AI-powered imaging tools. In March 2024, Lunit expanded its AI radiology solutions across French healthcare facilities to support breast cancer detection.

United Kingdom

The NHS Breast Screening Programme is among the largest in Europe, offering free mammograms to women aged 50–70. In February 2025, the UK government launched a major AI trial involving nearly 700,000 participants across 30 sites to evaluate AI’s effectiveness in improving early detection accuracy and efficiency.

Netherlands

The Netherlands boasts one of the highest screening participation rates in Europe. Government-funded programs cover women aged 50–75, supported by mobile screening units. In October 2023, Agendia NV’s MammaPrint® test was approved for inclusion in the national health insurance package, strengthening personalized breast cancer care.

Competitive Landscape

Key players operating in the broader European breast cancer screening and oncology ecosystem include:

AstraZeneca

Novartis

Sanofi

Pfizer

Bayer AG

GlaxoSmithKline plc

These companies contribute through diagnostic innovation, AI integration, oncology research, and strategic partnerships with healthcare providers. Competitive analysis typically evaluates each company across five viewpoints: overview, key personnel, recent developments, product portfolio, and revenue performance.

Final Thoughts

The Europe Breast Cancer Screening Market is entering a phase of accelerated growth, driven by strong government support, rising disease prevalence, and rapid technological innovation. With the market projected to more than double from USD 1.12 billion in 2024 to USD 2.43 billion by 2033, screening is becoming an increasingly vital component of Europe’s preventive healthcare strategy.

While challenges related to cost and accessibility remain, ongoing investments in AI-driven diagnostics, mobile screening solutions, and personalized risk assessment are steadily closing these gaps. As awareness continues to grow and healthcare systems evolve, breast cancer screening in Europe is poised to save more lives through earlier detection and more equitable access.