October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is encouraging individuals to prioritize their health by scheduling a breast screening exam today.

“Breast cancer is the most common cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer death for women so screening is key to ensure we detect cancer at it’s earliest stages,” says Dr. Eric Sauerbrei, Medical Director for KHSC’s Breast Imaging Kingston (BIK) site. “In fact, there is a one in eight chance that a woman will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.”

With Ontario’s recent expansion of breast screening eligibility, individuals as young as 40 years old can now self-refer for these critical exams through the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP). This change aims to increase early detection, offer more individuals the opportunity to benefit from early treatments, and save lives.

“Screening is performed at our BIK site, which offers comprehensive breast screening services, including mammography and other advanced imaging technologies in a comfortable and supportive environment. We’re dedicated to providing the highest standard of care, using cutting-edge equipment designed to ensure accurate diagnoses,” says Dr. Sauerbrei.

Breast screening is done using a mammogram, which is an x-ray of the breast tissue. It takes about 10 minutes to complete. 

How to book your appointment:

  • Individuals between the ages of 40-74 can call BIK directly at 613-384-4284. You do not require a referral from a doctor or nurse practitioner.
  • Individuals between the ages of 30-69 who are at high risk of developing breast cancer may be eligible for Ontario’s High-Risk Screening Program. You should speak to a physician or nurse practitioner to determine if you are eligible.
  • Individuals 75 and older: should speak to your physician or nurse practitioner about a referral to BIK. 

Screening is offered at BIK, KHSC’s state-of-the-art facility which opened in 2023. Located at 820 John Marks Avenue it provides comprehensive breast imaging services under one roof, with Breast MRI to be added in the near future.

For more information about breast screening and BIK visit: https://kingstonhsc.ca/programs-and-departments/breast-imaging-kingston