Hamilton Health Sciences worried about undiagnosed breast cancers
Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) is raising alarm about likely hundreds of undiagnosed cancers after 32,000 fewer women got mammograms in one year of the pandemic alone.
Unfortunately, cancer has most likely not decreased since the pandemic began," family physician Dr. Meghan Davis said in a statement Tuesday. I am very concerned that because this pandemic has led to less cancer screening, there are folks out there who have early stage cancers and precancers that we normally would have found, treated and cured - or even prevented."
Cancer screening of all types has dramatically decreased across the province over the COVID pandemic. The regional cancer program at HHS has particularly flagged the 32,000 fewer mammograms done in 2020 compared to 2019 in the old local health integration network, which includes Hamilton, Niagara, Haldimand, Brant and Burlington.
It is estimated that just under 40,000 area women are now overdue for the screening.
We understand there may be hesitancy to attend appointments during COVID-19, but these screenings and tests are essential," said Davis, who is the regional primary-care lead. Cancer screening tests help detect cancer early when you are feeling well and before you start to feel symptoms ... Cancer is easier to treat when it is found early."
Mammograms are provided every two years for women aged 50 to 74 through the Ontario Breast Screening Program. Recommendations differ based on individual and family health histories, so talking with a family doctor is also suggested.
An appointment can be booked at hnhbscreenforlife.ca/obspsites. Clinics have COVID measures in place including increased cleaning of surfaces between patients.
If you can go to the grocery store, you can get screened," Denise Tomasin of Stoney Creek said in a statement about getting a mammogram during the pandemic. The appointment only took about 15 minutes and I felt safe."
Her screening was clear, which she said left her with one less thing to worry about during this time."
I know that it is important for me to continue to attend medical appointments like cancer screening," she said. COVID is not going to stop me from making my health a priority."
Joanna Frketich is a Hamilton-based reporter covering health for The Spectator. Reach her via email: jfrketich@thespec.com