THUNDER BAY -- In an effort to raise breast cancer awareness for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, health officials are encouraging women ages 50 to 74 to book a mammogram.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian women.
An estimated one in nine Canadian women is expected to develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
Regional Aboriginal cancer lead Crystal Davey said health officials are trying to promote screenings for breast cancer throughout October.
“We want women ages 50 to 74 to book mammograms, and we want to spread the word to be breast aware, which just means really knowing your own body and any changes,” Davey said.
She added that cancer screening is crucial for catching cancer early and minimizing the severity of treatment
Women should talk to their family doctors, or health care professionals about getting screened for cancer.
There are many reasons why women are hesitant when it comes to breast screenings.
“I feel that some of the patients I see are worried about getting the diagnosis, so they rather not know and also there’s a little bit of uncertainty to what the test is like,” Davey said.
“Some women have heard stories from others that the test is uncomfortable or they are shy and they don’t want to have a breast exam done by anybody.”
Davey added that although it isn’t the most comfortable test, it helps save lives by catching the cancer early.
