Written by Terrence Vass WestCentralonline.com

Women in Saskatchewan aged 45 and older are now eligible for breast cancer screening mammograms, as a key change to the province’s screening program took effect this week.

The move is part of a phased plan to gradually lower the age of eligibility to 40 over the next year, with the aim of improving early detection and health outcomes for women across the province.

“Screening mammograms are one of the best ways to catch breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “Our government is committed to making sure women in Saskatchewan have access to safe, high-quality breast health care and the support they need, right in their own communities.”

This change is expected to expand access to early detection services, which currently lead to roughly 75 per cent of breast cancers being diagnosed in their early stages through the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency’s screening program, now operating under the name BreastCheck.

“Starting breast screening at age 45 is a powerful step in taking control of your health,” said Karen Efthimiou, Vice President of Population Health, Quality and Research at the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency. “Early detection means more treatment options and better outcomes. It saves lives. Don’t wait for symptoms – be proactive and get screened.”