Cancer Screening - Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Canada. Nearly one-half (50%) of all new breast cancers cases are in women 50 years of age or older. Women in this age range get the most from a screening mammogram (x-rays of the breasts). Mammograms can find breast cancers at an early stage, often before they can be felt or have spread to your lymph glands.

What you can do:

  • Be aware of any changes in your breasts and talk to your doctor if you find any changes.
  • Have a yearly breast exam by your doctor, nurse practitioner or nurse examiner.
  • All women 50 years and older should have a mammogram (breast x-ray) every 2 years.
  • If you are over 50, you can call the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) and make your own free appointment.

There are many benefits to you to be involved in the Ontario Breast Screening Program:

  • A specially trained nurse will take your history and do a thorough breast examination.
  • You will have your mammogram (breast x-ray) by the registered technologist.
  • After your visit, a letter with your results will be sent to both you and your doctor.
  • You will be reminded to make another appointment for your next breast x-ray in 2 years.

Here are the Ontario Breast Screening Programs in Waterloo Region:

Cambridge

  • Cambridge Memorial Hospital
    700 Coronation Blvd, Cambridge
    Phone: 519-740-4999
  • Medical Imaging Centre – Cambridge
    715 Coronation Blvd, Suite. 6, Cambridge
    Phone: 519-740-3736

Fergus

  • Groves Memorial Community Hospital
    235 Union Street East, Fergus
    Phone: 519-843-2010

Guelph

  • Guelph General Hospital
    115 Delhi St, Guelph
    Phone: 519-837-6440, ext. 6413
  • Guelph Imaging Centre
    55 Wyndham St N, Suite 206
    Phone: 519-821-7752

Kitchener

  • St. Mary’s General Hospital
    911 Queen’s Blvd, Kitchener
    Phone: 519-749-6456
  • True North Imaging
    751 Victoria St, Suite B102, Kitchener
    Phone: 519-742-7599

Related Resources

Canadian Breast Cancer Association - Early Detection

Canadian Cancer Society - Breast cancer: How to reduce your risk

Canadian Cancer Society - Ontario Breast Screening Program

Cancer Care Ontario - Breast Screening

Health Canada - It's Your Health: Mammography

Region of Waterloo Public Health - Breast Cancer