Eligible people 40+ can now book referral-free breast cancer screening in Dufferin/Caledon

ORANGEVILLE, ON (October 8, 2024) – As of today, eligible women, Two-Spirit, trans, and nonbinary people in Ontario aged 40 to 49 can now be screened for breast cancer without a physician referral. This is a change from the previous eligibility, which included people aged 50-74, as part of a new expansion to the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP). The expansion will provide greater access and allow more people to take action for their breast health. According to Canadian Cancer Statistics (2023), breast cancer cases in the 40 to 49 age group represent 13% of all projected breast cancer in Canada. Getting a mammogram at Headwaters Health Care Centre, one of three OBSP locations in Dufferin and Caledon, is a highly effective screening test for breast cancer. During October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month,  Headwaters is offering more screening mammograms, which equates to 48 additional patients.

“Getting a mammogram is the one of the best ways people can detect abnormalities in the breast – long before you can feel a lump. Mammograms can see even the smallest lesions that need treatment, which can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer thanks to early diagnosis.  Mammograms are safe and they save lives,” said Dr. Grace Wang, Chief of Staff and General Surgeon, Headwaters Health Care Centre. “In addition to being a certified centre for the Ontario Breast Screening Program, Headwaters Health Care Centre runs a Breast Diagnostic Assessment Program which helps expedite diagnosis and referral to a breast surgeon. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Headwaters is offering more screening mammogram appointments. Don’t take chances and don’t wait to book your mammogram,” added Dr. Wang.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian women. It is estimated that 1 in 8 Canadian women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.  Fortunately, breast cancer is treatable and curable, and the earlier the diagnosis, the better the chances are of survival.

“According to 2023 data, only 62% of eligible individuals in our community are up to date with mammogram screenings. In collaboration with community partners and physicians, our goal is to increase that number and decrease the risk of breast cancer in Dufferin and Caledon,” said Dave Pearson, Executive Director, Hills of Headwaters Collaborative Ontario Health Team. “The OBSP expansion will allow more people in our community to self-refer for a mammogram earlier in their life, increasing access to care for those who may not have otherwise been able to receive a referral. Early detection helps save lives,” added Pearson.

To further support breast health, Dufferin and Caledon residents are invited to register for Hike2Fight, the inaugural fundraiser at Headwaters Health Care Foundation focused on cancer care and treatment. The local hike will take place on October 10 and will raise funds for much-needed cancer prevention and treatment equipment at Headwaters Health Care Centre.
 
The OBSP recommends getting screened every two years. To find out more about new eligibility, where to get screened and what to expect, visit preventingcancer.ca. To book a mammogram breast screening appointment, eligible individuals can call Headwaters Health Care Centre at (519) 941-2410 extension 2842 from Monday to Fridays during 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or call the Dufferin/Caledon Community Help Line at 1-844-806-3093, where an operator will help navigate callers to the nearest OBSP site.