A free mobile mammography service will be available to women in Hythe as part of Alberta Health Services Screen Test program.
Women aged 50 to 74 are in the most at-risk category to develop breast cancer, and early detection can drastically help provide more options for treatment and the chance of survival.
“A mammogram can find breast cancer two to three years before it can be felt when it’s in it’s really small, initial stages,” says Harmony McRae with Screentest. “When we find it that small, the treatment options are so much better.”
McRae adds she knows many women say the procedure is uncomfortable but says those 10 or 20 seconds of feeling a small amount of pain is overshadowed by the potential positives of the test.
“We do have to compress the tissue so we can see through it. Being able to see through that tissue is how we can find breast cancer early. So, while it’s a bit uncomfortable, it does give you peace of mind.”
The Screen Test program recently visited numerous smaller communities across Northern Alberta where cancer screening wouldn’t normally be as readily available.
The mobile medical trailer will be located in the parking lot of Hythe Regional School on August 8th, 9th, 12th and 13th. Residents can learn more about the program, or book an appointment by calling 1-800-667-0604.