VANCOUVER, BC –
With funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) has launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the importance of regular screening mammograms to detect breast cancer.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Canada. In 2024 alone, 30,800 people in Canada were expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer.
Regular mammograms help detect breast cancer early and lower the risk of dying from the disease. The breast cancer death rate has decreased by over 45% since the early 1990s, which is largely attributed to a combination of increased screening and the use of more effective treatments after diagnosis.
Through a recently launched nationwide awareness campaign, CCS is urging women and trans, non-binary and gender diverse people between the ages of 40 and 74 to learn more about breast screening programs in their province or territory and how to make an appointment. With a goal of improving screening uptake, the campaign specifically targets people in this age range who have never been screened and those who have not been screened in 3 years or more.
"We know that regular screening for breast cancer can save lives, yet many people who are eligible for mammography do not get screened,” says Dr Sandra Krueckl, Executive Vice President, Mission, Information and Support Services at CCS. “The reasons some people miss out on screening can be complex, but a simple contributing factor is low awareness. That’s why we’re excited about this campaign, which aims to empower people with information about breast screening and encourage those who are eligible to schedule a mammogram.”
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, Nalini Sharma understands the importance of mammograms to help find breast cancer early. An active mom with no family history of cancer, Nalini noticed she hadn't been feeling like herself, so she made an appointment with her doctor. The doctor recommended that she get a mammogram, and a few weeks later, she learned she had breast cancer. Now cancer-free after a year of treatment, Nalini is an advocate for screening.
“We all know we need to look after ourselves, but when you have a busy life, you sometimes put yourself last,” says Nalini. “If you are eligible for breast screening, don’t put it off – it’s such an important tool to help you take control of your health. If it hadn’t been for my mammogram, who knows where I would be today.”
If you are between the ages of 40 and 74, find out what screening is available to you. All provinces and territories have breast cancer screening available through an organized screening program or your healthcare provider. Who is eligible for screening varies across jurisdictions.
“Breast cancer touches the lives of so many, either through a personal diagnosis or that of a loved one. The Government of Canada is dedicated to protecting the lives of Canadians through awareness, comprehensive breast cancer screening and prevention efforts. We are proud to work with partners, like the Canadian Cancer Society, to empower women to make informed health care decisions, supported by the best available science and evidence.” – The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health.
Visit Get Your Mammogram to learn more about mammography and about breast screening programs in your province or territory. Talk to your healthcare team about the benefits and limitations of screening mammography and what type of screening is right for you.
About the Public Health Agency of Canada
The Public Health Agency of Canada is part of the federal health portfolio. Its mission is to promote and protect the health of Canadians through leadership, partnership, innovation and action in public health.
About the Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society works tirelessly to save and improve lives. We raise funds to fuel the brightest minds in cancer research. We provide a compassionate support system for all those affected by cancer, across Canada and for all types of cancer. Together with patients, supporters, donors and volunteers, we work to create a healthier future for everyone. Because to take on cancer, it takes all of us. It takes a society.
Help us make a difference. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit cancer.ca today.
For more information, please contact:
Adrian Bascar
Communications Specialist
778-723-0689
adrian.bascar@cancer.ca