‘Breast cancer screening is an important preventive health measure that can help detect cancer before symptoms appear,’ say Barrie hospital officials<\/p>\n
NEWS RELEASE
\nROYAL VICTORIA REGIONAL HEALTH CENTRE
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\nThis Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) is encouraging eligible residents across Simcoe-Muskoka to book their breast cancer screening and ensure they are up to date with routine mammograms.<\/p>\n
While self-care is often associated with activities that help us relax and recharge, some of the most important acts of self-care are the ones that protect our health.<\/p>\n
Breast cancer screening is one of them.<\/p>\n
Breast cancer screening is an important preventive health measure that can help detect cancer before symptoms appear. Regular mammograms can find breast cancer earlier, when treatment options are often most effective and outcomes can be improved.<\/p>\n
Despite the benefits of routine screening, one-third of eligible people in Simcoe-Muskoka are not up to date on their breast cancer screening. For average-risk individuals ages 50 to 74, screening is recommended every two years through Ontario’s organized screening program.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know that many people in our region are not up to date on their breast screening, and we want to change that,\u201d says Dana Naylor, vice-president, clinical; regional vice-president, Cancer Services, Ontario Health (Cancer Care Ontario). \u201cThis year, I am celebrating five years cancer-free, and I am incredibly grateful that my breast cancer was detected through my very first screening mammogram.<\/p>\n
“That experience reinforced for me just how important early detection can be. I know life is busy and there are always competing priorities, but making time for screening could make all the difference,”\u00a0Naylor added.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Eligible people ages 40 to 74 can book themselves a publicly funded mammogram through the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) without needing a referral from a doctor or nurse practitioner. Being able to self-refer can make it easier for eligible people to access screening at screening locations across Simcoe-Muskoka, including RVH.<\/p>\n
Take a moment to look after yourself this month and make sure you are up to date on your screening. A mammogram appointment takes approximately an hour but can support your health for years to come.<\/p>\n