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Free breast cancer screening

Early detection saving lives
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Mobile Mammography Service. Supplied photo

Eligible women in the Elk Valley will have access to free mammograms when BC Cancer’s mobile breast cancer screening unit arrives in the region this week.

Around one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime and it is the most common type of cancer found in women in B.C.

A screening mammogram consists of four images that look for hidden cancer in women who are healthy with no symptoms and have never had breast cancer.

“Mammograms save lives by detecting breast cancers early, often before they have spread and when more treatment options are available,” said Dr. Colin Mar, medical director for BC Cancer’s screening mammography program.

“More women in B.C. are being diagnosed with breast cancer but fewer are dying from the disease. This is in large part due to early detection and treatment.”

BC Cancer’s breast cancer screening coach will be at the Elkford Health Centre (212 Alpine Way) from March 14-15, the Best Western Plus Fernie Mountain Lodge (1622 7th Avenue) from March 16-17 and March 19, and the Sparwood Hospital and Health Centre (570 Pine Avenue) from March 20-21.

It is recommended that women aged 40-74 who have a mother, daughter or sister with breast cancer have a mammogram every year, while those without a family history should get checked every two years.

To book a screening mammogram, call 1-800-663-9203. A doctor’s referral is not required.

For more information, visit ScreeningBC.ca/breast.