Jane Emerick
[email protected]
The opportunity for the "most effective method of detecting breast cancer" is coming to Squamish in May and those interested are encouraged to sign up for their screening mammography to ensure an appointment when the mobile van comes to town.
The screening mammography mobile van will in Squamish from May 17 - June 1 at the Squamish Hospital. The program is free to those who are eligible, and doctors involved say the screening is essential to women between the ages of 40 to 79.
"Mammography screening is the most effective method of detecting breast cancer and early detection is the key to surviving the disease," said vice-president of oncology, Dr. Andrew Coldman.
To be eligible women have to be B.C. residents between the ages 40 to 79 (women outside of this range are accepted with a doctor's referral note), have not had a mammogram within 12 months, have no breast changes, for example lumps, thickening, or nipple discharge, (women with these conditions should make an appointment with their doctors), are not pregnant or breastfeeding, have not had breast cancer, and does not have breast implants.
The procedure involves an x-ray of the breast.
Between the years 2000 and 2004, examinations were performed for 512,372 women. Of that 4,627 cases of breast cancer were diagnosed.
To book an appointment call 1-800-663-9203.
As of the Chief press deadline, 240 appointments were available for booking in Squamish.
