This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Southlake Regional Health Center has added three state-of-the-art mammography machines that will expand screening to an additional 1,500 women annually.

“The new mammography machines will help Southlake meet the growing demand for breast cancer screening and diagnosis with the best technology available,” said Lorrie Reynolds, director, regional cancer program at Southlake, in a statement from presser.

More than 11,700 people have been tested so far in 2024, the hospital said.

On average, 84 Canadian women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day, making it one of the most common cancers affecting women.

Two of the three new mammography machines have biopsy capabilities that reduce the time it takes to complete a mammogram and improve detection and diagnostic capabilities.

Southlake offers publicly funded mammograms to women ages 40 to 49 through the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP). All women age 40 and older can self-refer for a mammogram and are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about whether screening is right for them.

Mammogram appointments can be scheduled by calling OBSP Southlake at 905-895-4521, ext. 6228 or the main OBSP reservation line at 1-800-668-9304.

“We know that early detection can lead to better patient outcomes,” said Ellen Speight, director, laboratory and diagnostic imaging at Southlake. “We are already seeing the impact these new machines are having on women in our communities.”

The World Health Organization anticipates a 77% increase in cancer diagnoses by 2050. Southlake serves some of the fastest growing communities in Canada and anticipates that the number of patients requiring cancer care will increase.

The new mammography machines were funded with the support of community donors who have given generously to Southlake to support investments in women’s health at the hospital.

“The generosity of our donor community and the impact they have had on women receiving a cancer diagnosis and treatment at Southlake is something we can all be proud of,” said Jennifer Ritter, president and CEO of the Southlake Foundation. “Thank you to every donor who has contributed to these critical improvements, ensuring that women in our community can be confident that they are receiving cutting-edge cancer care, close to home when they need it most.”

For more information or to make a donation, visit southlake.ca/HERE.