Women ages 50 to 74 are the group most at risk of developing breast cancer; and will have local access to screening mammography services when the Alberta Health Services Screen Test program arrives in the community next month.
A mobile mammography trailer will be stationed in McLennan at the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre on November 6, 8 and 9.
AHS is offering additional cancer screening services during this time. AHS Screening Programs is partnering with Screen Test as part of a project to provide cervical and colorectal cancer screening in McLennan on November 8 and 9. A female Nurse Practitioner will provide the screening.
Screen Test is improving access to cancer screening for hundreds of women in northern Alberta communities where mammography is not readily available. With the addition of cervical and colorectal screening, AHS is making cancer screening more convenient with just one stop.
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast and has proven to be the most effective way to detect breast cancer. Early detection allows for a greater number of options for treatment and a better chance of survival.
Women ages 25 to 69 should have regular cervical cancer screening using Pap tests.
Everyone ages 50 to 74 should be screened for colorectal cancer. Those who are not high risk can have a regular colorectal screening using the FIT home stool test.
Appointments can be made for mammography services, cervical and colorectal cancer screening by calling Screen Test at 1-800-667-0604.
Due to COVID-19, Screen Test is taking a number of precautions to ensure the safety of our clients and staff. Details will be shared when you call to book your appointment. Visit screeningforlife.ca to learn more.
-Erika Rolling, Trending 55 Newsroom
