Manitoba Lowers Self-Referral Breast Cancer Screening Age to 45

Manitoba has officially reduced the self-referral breast cancer screening age from 50 to 45, a decision announced on Tuesday by the provincial government. Residents aged 45 and older will be eligible to begin booking appointments for screening starting on January 2, 2025. This significant change aims to enhance early detection and improve health outcomes for Manitobans.

The initiative follows a commitment made in September 2024 by the New Democratic Party (NDP) government to lower the screening age, with plans to further reduce it to 40 by the end of next year. Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara highlighted the importance of earlier screenings, stating that this change will enable more individuals to access vital healthcare services.

CancerCare Manitoba supports the government’s decision, emphasizing the benefits of early detection. According to Asagwara, “Earlier screening saves lives, and lowering the self-referral age will help more Manitobans get the care they need.” This aligns with recommendations from health advocates, including organizations like Dense Breasts Canada, which have long pushed for improved screening access.

To accommodate the anticipated increase in demand for screenings, CancerCare Manitoba has hired seven new mammography technologists and is continuing its recruitment efforts. The organization is on track to complete approximately 47,000 breast cancer screenings in the current year, demonstrating a robust commitment to public health.

Upgrading Screening Infrastructure

In addition to staffing enhancements, screening sites across Manitoba are undergoing significant upgrades. New mammography equipment is being installed, with a target completion date set for the end of 2026. These improvements are crucial for maintaining high-quality care and ensuring that all residents have access to necessary services.

CancerCare Manitoba has also expanded its outreach efforts, hiring a dedicated staff member in June to enhance screening access for individuals living in rural, remote, and northern communities. This initiative includes engaging with over 30 First Nations communities, aiming to raise awareness and facilitate easier access to screening for underserved populations.

Dr. Donna Turner, vice-president and chief of population oncology at CancerCare Manitoba, expressed optimism about the provincial government’s commitment to lowering the breast cancer self-referral screening age. She stated that these efforts will have a profound impact on early detection and treatment outcomes in the province.

The proactive measures taken by Manitoba’s government and CancerCare Manitoba represent a significant step forward in public health policy, ensuring that more individuals are screened earlier and have access to the care they need. This change is expected to save lives and improve the overall health of the community as they work toward a more inclusive healthcare system.