Cancer Screening
Early detection is key in the fight against breast cancer. In October 2024, Ontario’s Breast Screening Program expanded to include individuals aged 40 to 49. Discuss screening with your comprehensive primary care provider to ensure you’re making an informed decision. If you decide that breast cancer screening is right for you, you can make an appointment for a mammogram yourself – no referral needed! Call Ontario Breast Screening Program Appointment Booking Line at 1-800-668-9304 to book.
The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a crucial screening tool for those at average risk of colorectal cancer. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, with 9 out of 10 people being cured if cancer is caught early. Most people aged 50 to 74 are at average risk and should get screened with FIT every 2 years. To get your free FIT, talk to your comprehensive primary care provider. If you don’t have one, call Health811 at 811. First Nation communities can contact their health centre or nursing station.
Cervical screening is vital for detecting cell changes in the cervix before they become cancer. Thanks to screening, the rate of cervical cancer in Ontario has dramatically declined since the 1980s. Anyone with a cervix who has been sexually active is at risk for cervical cancer. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test screens for the virus, which can lead to the development of cervical cancer. Cervical screening with the HPV test is recommended every 5 years for people 25-69 years of age. Talk to your doctor/NP or contact the COHT Unattached Clinic for screening.
Source: Cancer Care Ontario
There are more than 200 types of cancer, and many possible causes. These include factors such as genetics (changes in your genes), lifestyle choices, certain types of infections, environmental causes or a combination of these. For many possible reasons, cells that make up your body that were once healthy undergo changes that cause them to multiply uncontrollably.
Because each type of cancer is so different, there isn’t just one screening process, test or treatment for all types. Learn more about some of the most common types of cancer, how to lower your risks for getting cancer, your screening options, the diagnosis process and possible treatments at Cancer Care Ontario website. You will also find information tools and programs that help improve care for people with specific types of cancer.
Have any questions? Call The Simcoe Muskoka Cancer Screening Hotline at 1-866-608-6910! This is a free service that can help you get up-to-date with your colorectal, cervical and breast cancer screening. Anyone can call!
Upcoming Cancer Screening Clinics in Couchiching
The clinics noted below are for unattached patients. Please call 705-329-3649 ext. 231 to book at the Couchiching Family Health Team. Visit the Huronia NPLC website to schedule an appointment with their clinic.
