Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings screenings to Fort St. John Hospital

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Eligible Fort St. John residents are encouraged to book a mammogram this month as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

According to an October 7th press release from BC Cancer, screening mammograms are available through its free breast screening program at the Fort St. John Hospital’s medical imaging department.

Appointments are open to most women, as well as many Two-Spirit, trans and gender-diverse individuals aged 40 and older who do not have symptoms. According to BC Cancer, mammograms can detect breast cancer early, often years before a lump can be felt.

“Mammograms save lives by detecting breast cancers early, often before they have spread and when more treatment options are available,” said Rableen Nagra, director of breast and lung screening operations at BC Cancer. 

“More people in BC are being diagnosed with breast cancer, but fewer are dying from the disease. This is in large part due to early detection and treatment.”

Screening is recommended every year for those aged 40 to 74 who have had a close family member with breast cancer, and every two years for those without a family history.

The Fort St. John Hospital screening site – located at 8407 112th Avenue – is open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 8:40 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.; Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:20 p.m. and Thursday from 10:40 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. 

While not mandatory, masks are encouraged, and visitors are asked to arrive 15 minutes before their appointment.

BC Cancer warned people who are due for a mammogram will not receive a mailed reminder due to the current Canada Post disruptions. Reminders can be accessed through Health Gateway or by contacting a healthcare provider.

To book a screening mammogram, call 1-800-663-9203 or visit BC Cancer’s website.