Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among women in Alberta, so doctors in the region are working diligently to improve the situation. Within Alberta, the Alberta Cancer Foundation and the Alberta Society of Radiologists have joined forces to encourage women to undergo routine breast cancer screening. Women who get regular exams have a significantly higher chance of detecting breast cancer early, which increases the likelihood of successful treatment and survival. In this article, we’ll discuss the free government screening programs as well as private clinics that offer breast cancer screening services. More on edmontonka.com.
AHS Breast Cancer Screening Program
The AHS Breast Cancer Screening Program is a provincial service dedicated to increasing the number of women ages 45 to 74 who undergo regular mammograms and other breast exams.
It’s part of the Alberta Breast Cancer Screening Program, providing mammograms and breast health information to women in Edmonton and 120 communities across Alberta. Notably, the service runs two mobile mammography clinics on wheels, fully equipped to bring convenient diagnostic options right to you.
Alberta women aged 45 to 74 qualify for a free mammogram every two years. If you are 45 to 74, you’re automatically enrolled in the screening program. Once you turn 50, if you have never had a mammogram in Alberta, you’ll receive an invitation to schedule a screening.
You can get an AHS Breast Cancer Screening Program mammogram at locations including the Arthur JE Child Oncology Center, Chinook Regional Hospital, Cross Cancer Institute, Foothills Medical Centre, Grande Prairie Regional Hospital, the North Pavilion at the Holy Cross Centre, Kingsway Mall, University of Alberta Hospital, Northern Lights Regional Health Centre, and Peace River Community Health Centre.
Insight Medical Imaging
Insight Medical Imaging provides a full spectrum of diagnostic services for various breast conditions, including ultrasound, nuclear medicine, MRI, and biopsy. Every service offered by the clinic is fully accredited by the Canadian Association of Radiologists and the Alberta Society of Radiologists.
The clinic is open five days a week (Monday to Friday). All breast screening sites employ seasoned experts. If additional tests or scans are recommended after your initial exam, you can often get them done the same day without needing to book a second appointment, reducing stress and accelerating care. Every effort is made to keep patients at ease throughout. The center includes a separate waiting area with comfortable seating and a small refreshment station, and the staff are courteous and eager to help.
Insight Medical Imaging doesn’t recommend routine screening for women under 40, since the incidence in that group is quite low. An annual mammogram is suggested for women 40 to 49 who have denser breast tissue, while women over 50 should get a mammogram at least every two years.
Medical Imaging
You can also schedule a mammogram at Medical Imaging, Alberta’s largest radiology center. They have more than 100 radiologists specializing in different fields, along with 450+ technologists and support staff. Operating since 1996, the center prides itself on comprehensive patient care.
A mammogram at Medical Imaging is designed for maximum comfort. On arrival, you’ll be asked to change into a gown. For a clear reading, the technologist will place your breast on a compression plate, and the device will gradually press your breast between two plates. This may cause slight discomfort, but it’s crucial for an accurate image. If you have very sensitive breasts, it’s recommended to schedule at least a week before your menstrual cycle. Any discomfort ends right after the procedure. Once you’re finished, a complete report is sent to the referring doctor.
Patients with diabetes who use continuous glucose monitors should remove the device to avoid radiation exposure issues.
My breast screening
Dense Breasts Canada and women’s health advocates nationwide have collaborated to form My breast screening, encouraging women to prioritize breast exams. Breast cancer screening saves lives, but there are gaps between Canada’s official screening guidelines and the provincial programs’ practices. Often, women don’t have sufficient access to quality screenings.
My breast screening seeks to provide women with reliable information on breast cancer and screening. It also highlights the inequities in provincial breast cancer screening programs, pushing for healthcare policy reforms at both federal and provincial levels. The organization fosters a community of women sharing their stories to spur real and meaningful changes in healthcare.
Mammography can detect cancer early, identifying tumors two to three years before they become palpable. Early detection greatly improves survival rates and can reduce the need for harsher treatments. My breast screening underscores that mammography can indeed save lives. On its website, you can read numerous accounts of women whose lives were saved by timely diagnosis.
Their services are available in many regions, including Alberta.
Invest Med
Invest Med is a state-of-the-art clinic in Edmonton urging patients “not to become a statistic” and to consult a doctor promptly. According to their website, breast cancer—along with lung cancer, melanoma, and thyroid cancer—ranks among the most prevalent cancers affecting Canadian women.
Preventive screenings at Invest Med help detect tumors, infections, and injuries. They use advanced DNA testing (BRCA1 and BRCA2), improving detection among women under 50.
Invest Med conducts personalized exams based on your family medical history, lifestyle, and mental health. The clinic also offers screenings aimed at preventing long-term illnesses.
Invest Med is a private practice providing a range of diagnostic packages. Each includes a one-hour physical exam plus a one-hour consultation offering recommendations for optimal health.
Remember: the key to fighting cancer is early detection. Regular screening finds cancer before it advances, reducing risks significantly. Alberta has numerous programs and healthcare facilities working to raise breast cancer awareness and offer diagnostic tests. They carry out awareness campaigns, webinars, and even free mammogram services. Don’t neglect your health. “Don’t become a statistic,” and take advantage of these services.