Screening Mammography Program Encourages More Women To Think About Breast Health, Canada

Main Category: Breast Cancer
Also Included In: Cancer / Oncology;  Women's Health / Gynecology
Article Date: 20 Oct 2007 - 12:00 PDT

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Women representing British Columbia's cultural diversity tending to a large tree sprouting familiar pink ribbons is the updated and inclusive new look designed to encourage more B.C. women to help reduce breast cancer mortality through early detection.

The BC Cancer Agency's Screening Mammography Program of BC's (SMP) refreshed look is coupled with the new theme, "Pass it On…Your Breast Health Has Support," which support the program's efforts to increase the more than 270,000 women screened annually in the province.

"Women too often neglect their own health in favour of family and work responsibilities," said Langley MLA Mary Polak, Parliamentary Secretary to the Conversation on Health, on behalf of Health Minister George Abbott. "Together with our ongoing awareness and educational campaigns, this new approach is a 'call to action' that encourages women to think about their own breast health and to look out for each other's health."

The redesigned materials will soon be seen in doctors' offices, hospitals, public health offices, walk-in clinics, community centres and various locations frequented by women. Created by Vancouver artist Steve Hepburn - whose visual design originated in an oil painting that will eventually be auctioned off to raise funds for cancer research - this unique look can also be seen at the program's web site: www.smpbc.ca

SMP supports breast health by offering a free screening mammography program through fixed and mobile clinics across B.C. to all women ages 40 to 79. Women in this age range can book a 15-minute appointment for a mammogram directly, without a doctor's referral.

"Our target audience is B.C. women in the higher-risk age categories," said Dr. Andy Coldman, BC Cancer Agency VP Population Oncology. "We are also reaching out to many diverse communities across the province. For example, the new look will be incorporated into updated brochures that will be available in English, Chinese and Punjabi languages."

Quick Stats about SMP

- Beginning in 1988, SMP was the first provincial program of its kind in Canada.

- Last year, SMP screened about 270,000 women.

- In B.C., regular screening mammograms have shown to reduce the death rate from breast cancer by 25%.

- SMP's cancer detection rates have consistently exceeded Canadian Breast Screening targets.

Other Facts

- B.C. has the most favourable cancer outcomes in Canada and some of the shortest wait times for care in the country.

- BC Cancer Agency is involved in a number of initiatives in the fight against breast cancer, including:

-- Attracting top breast cancer researchers from around the world to the BC Cancer Agency Research Centre.
-- Creating a department focused on some of the most advanced translational research on breast cancer.
-- Purchasing an advanced digital mammography device that allows earlier and more accurate diagnostic detection of breast cancer.

The BC Cancer Agency, an Agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The BC Cancer Foundation raises funds to support research and enhancements to patient care at the BC Cancer Agency.

http://www.bccancer.bc.ca