Thanks to the leadership of Roblin MLA Kathleen Cook and the efforts of hundreds of survivors and advocates, Bill 221, the Earlier Screening for Breast Cancer Act, passed its second reading in the Manitoba Legislature today with unanimous support, marking a crucial victory for women's health across the province.
Media Release - October 10, 2024
“This legislation is an opportunity to protect Manitoba women,” said Cook, who introduced the bill and has been advocating for several months to reduce the screening age as the PC Critic for Health. “Breast cancer is increasingly affecting younger women, and early detection saves lives. We can’t afford to wait any longer. This bill puts us on the right path.”
Bill 221 sets a firm deadline, ensuring that the initial eligibility age for routine breast cancer screening services is lowered from 50 to 40 years no later than December 31, 2026. It also mandates yearly public reporting on progress toward this goal and the number of mammograms performed each year.
As a direct result of today’s debate on Bill 221, this morning NDP health minister Uzoma Asagwara announced plans to lower the breast cancer screening age to 40 in Manitoba. Previously, they had only committed to age 45 by the end of 2025. Progressive Conservatives pushed for this vital step as nearly 20% of breast cancer diagnoses occur in women under 50, often with more aggressive forms of the disease.
“It's encouraging to see the NDP adopting ideas from my legislation. Let’s move forward with Bill 221, get it to committee, through the legislative process, and secure royal assent before the end of this session,” said Cook. “There’s no reason for them to delay transparency on improving breast cancer screening in Manitoba.”
“We need real action now, not just words. Other provinces like Ontario and BC have already made this change. Manitoba women can’t afford to wait.”
Advocates such as the Canadian Cancer Society, Dense Breasts Canada, and thousands of survivors across the country have been calling for lower screening ages.