A woman does not necessarily need to have a family history of breast cancer to be at risk of developing the potentially deadly disease.
A woman does not necessarily need to have a family history of breast cancer to be at risk of developing the potentially deadly disease.
Even women who are steadfastly committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle — working out, eating well, refraining from smoking or drinking excessively — could be among the one in eight Alberta women who will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
“A lot of women don't realize breast cancer is still a problem,” said Harmony McRae, community coordinator with Screen Test, which makes available mobile mammogram clinics, during a phone interview with the Round Up.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the province, she said.
But there is good news.
Over the past couple of decades or so, advancements not only in treatments but especially in early screening tests have improved by leaps and bounds.
“Some 25 years ago, breast cancer was basically a death sentence,” said McRae.
Yet today, modern screening techniques can detect breast cancer earlier than physical checkups by as much as two to three years, which in turn opens the doors to better treatments and significantly higher odds of survival, she said.
“It's been a bit of a game changer for women,” she said.
“Early diagnosis can really mean the difference between life and death…There are a lot of people working behind the scenes to make sure cancer screening and treatment is improving all the time, as much as we can.”
A mammogram is the most proven and safest early screening test available, she said.
“It's not perfect, but it's the best one we have,” she said, adding the technology has over the years improved substantially and that the element of discomfort or pain often associated with the exam has to an extent been reduced.
“It's not something to be afraid of.”
A mammogram should — just like a Pap test — be part of a woman's regular health routine, she said, adding breast cancer is most prevalent in those aged 50-74.
While women can consider introducing mammograms into their health checkups as early as the age of 40, they must talk with their physician to get a referral for a screening. Women in the recommended age range do not need a referral and are encouraged to call 1-800-667-0604 to book an appointment, she said.
So we encourage any women in the target age range who have for any reason postponed getting checked to seriously consider setting up a time for a screening. Click here for related coverage.
Ducatel is the Round Up's editor
