The Progressive Conservatives in Manitoba are proposing to lower the age for breast cancer screening. On Oct. 3, the PCs introduced a bill to reduce the screening age from 50 to 40. They noted the NDP had vaguely suggested lowering the age to 40, but the PCs want to make the promise concrete.
Central Plains Cancer Services executive director Sharilyn Knox said changes like this are happening across the country and welcomed the proposal.
"Early detection saves lives; early detection changes treatment courses and interventions for people diagnosed with breast cancer. The earlier we can find it, the better. Lowering the age limit gives women the opportunity for early mammograms, and also for providing peace of mind. As an organization that supports people through a breast cancer diagnosis, we really welcome this change."
Roblin MLA Kathleen Cook, the Progressive Conservative health critic, introduced The Earlier Screening for Breast Cancer Act in the Manitoba Legislature. It aims to address a significant gap in healthcare for women. The PCs are seeking a deadline of Dec. 31, 2026, for the new screening age, and they want the health minister to provide an annual report on the initiative’s implementation to the legislative assembly to hold the government accountable.
The bill is based on the fact that breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women aged 40 to 55 in Canada. Women in their 40s who undergo screening are less likely to die from the disease than those who do not.
The PCs cited a statement from Jennifer Borgfjord, an advocate for Dense Breasts Canada: "The time to lower the age for breast screening in Manitoba is now. We cannot afford to wait any longer, knowing early detection saves lives. I urge our province to follow the successful examples of Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia, who have already implemented screening at age 40. We must follow their lead to ensure timely and effective implementation in Manitoba."