Women in the Wainwright area will have access to AHS’ mobile mammography services starting in the third week of January.
The breast cancer screening unit will be making their way to the town on January 21st and will be offering their services this way until February 2nd.
The AHS says its especially important for women, especially those in the higher risk brackets to get a mammogram because it is the most effective way of finding breast cancer, and early detection means a better chance of survival, with 90% of women now surviving if caught early, AHS notes.
The screenings can find changes in the breast to small to be felt during a self-screening or by a doctors hands alone, even in those that have no visible changes or symptoms.
Who should regularly be screened is contingent on age, the AHS says. Women ages 50 to 74 have the highest rates of breast cancer diagnoses and should plan to have a mammogram every two years. They can also self refer to a mammogram service.
Women over the age of 75 also have the option to continue regular screenings and should talk to their doctor about cancer risks and the benefits of screenings. The same is recommended for women ages 40 to 49, as their screenings are also optional. A referral for women between these ages is needed for the first time they get a mammogram.
It’s not recommended for women under 40 to get a screening mammogram, AHS says, and instead, these women should discuss their breast cancer risk and mammography options with their health care provider.
The service will come at no cost but will require people to call ahead to make an appointment by calling 1-800-667-0604. Due to COVID-19, precautions will be taken by AHS to protect the safety of staff and clients. These will be explained to people when they book their appointment, AHS says.