Breast Cancer screening now available for Eeyou Istchee Women Aged 50-74

February 20, 2024

Women aged 50-74 in Eeyou Istchee can now access breast cancer screening through the provincial program or Clara Bus mobile unit.

All Eeyou Itschee women between the ages of 50 and 74 now have access to breast cancer screening. Following a major change in the Quebec's Breast Cancer Screening Program (PQDCS) effective January 31 2024, recommended breast cancer screening will be available to all women in this age group.

Previously, breast cancer screening was only offered to women between the ages of 50 – 69 years old every two years.

The changes to the provincial program will be incorporated into the forthcoming phase of Clara Bus's tour.

Why the change?

As women age, their risk of developing breast cancer increases. Recent studies have shown that more women between the ages of 50 and 74 are diagnosed with breast cancer than women between the ages of 50 and 69.

Extending the screening program aims to detect potential breast cancers early, leading to earlier treatment outcomes and survival rates.

The screening procedure offered under Quebec's breast cancer screening program is a mammogram test, offered every two years to eligible women.

How can I get screened?

Two options are available:

Clara Bus (mobile screening mammography): The Clara Bus will be visiting Nemaska and Waskaganish soon. Watch for local announcements for specific dates and locations
Local CMC doctor: Discuss your options with your local CMC physician. They can arrange for your screening mammogram to be done in Val-D'Or or Chibougamau.

Getting screened for breast cancer has advantages and disadvantages. It is important that it is your decision whether or not to be screened. Please contact your local PCCR for more information.