October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a global and annual campaign that raises awareness about the impact of the most common cancer in Ontario women.
One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. While breast cancer is prominent, more people in Ontario survive breast cancer than almost every other type of cancer. Regular screening is the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, which is when treatment has a higher chance of being successful.
In fact, it only takes 15 minutes of your time.
The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) is a province-wide organized screening program that aims to reduce breast cancer mortality through regular screening. The program provides screening for most people ages 50 to 74 and for people ages 30 to 69 who meet the OBSP’s high risk eligibility criteria without a physician’s referral.
Niagara Health operates three full-service OBSP Centres and Assessment Clinics at the Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Welland hospitals.
In addition, the Mobile Cancer Screening Coach, operated by the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Regional Cancer Care Program provides free breast, cervical and colon cancer screening services in Fort Erie and Port Colborne. Residents can book an appointment for the Mobile Cancer Screening Coach by calling 905-975-4467 or 1-855-338-3131.
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness, Niagara Falls will be illuminated pink on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 10 p.m. for 15 minutes, which can also be enjoyed via a live cam for those who cannot attend in person. Welland’s Bridge 13 will be illuminated pink on Thursday, Oct. 3.
Learn more about breast screening at Niagara Health and to schedule an appointment.
Learn more about the Mobile Cancer Screening Coach.
