The Ford Government has announced the approval of annual self-referred breast screening for women ages 40-49, from the current age 50.  An MD requisition will no longer be necessary and will bring this need into line with the standard used by the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP).

A worrying 17% of all breast cancers are found in women in the 40-49 age group.  Breast screening has already demonstrated that it saves lives.  The 5-year survival rate for stage 1 breast cancer is 99.8% vs 23.2% for stage 4 diagnoses.  Screening will make it possible for more Stage 1 findings.

Dr. David Jacobs, Ontario Association of Radiologists (OAR) President said, “Reducing the age of breast screening to 40 in Ontario will be one of the most impactful improvements to Women’s Health in Ontario that we’ve seen in decades.  It will have major benefits for women ages 40-49 through earlier detection, better outcomes, and significant health care system savings.  This is incredibly good news for women across Ontario“.

“Through early detection, this initiative will save an estimated 200 young Ontario women’s lives each year and prevent hundreds more women from having to undergo chemotherapy and mastectomies” Dr. Jacobs added.

Certain populations like Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Ashkenazi Jewish women will experience more significant health benefits due to the higher proportion of breast cancer affecting these groups in their 40s.

About one year ago, the OAR sought to effect a change a change in breast screening unifying the efforts of Ontario’s leading breast imagers, several patient advocates and many diagnostic radiologists who participated in a Queen’s Park presentation to elevate awareness and recommend solutions.  The Conservative government’s strong endorsement was joined by all party support, along with the Ministry of Health.