October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and B.C Cancer is encouraging women 40+ to book their next screening mammogram.
According to Medical Director Colin Mar, the best way to minimize impact of the disease is through early detection.
“We recommend that all women who are in the age group 50 to 74 have regular mammograms every two years. But also that all women 40 and up consider what strategy is best for them and their breast health.”
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in B.C and the second leading cause of cancer death, said Mar.
“Of the eligible population across the province, we know just over 50 per cent of the eligible population do participate in screening and we do have a national target of at least 70 per cent.”
He says every women needs to think about a strategy that will work for their particular circumstances and risk factors.
“Well of course after being a woman first, age would be the most important risk factor. The majority of our cancers, in fact over 80 per cent of them, we diagnose or find in women who are 50 or older.”
He said one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and one in 28 die from the disease.
Screening mammograms are free for women 40+ in B.C and does not require a doctor’s referral.
You can book your free appointment by calling 250 861 7560.