As Breast Cancer Awareness Month concludes, local advocate Jenny Borgfjord is expressing cautious optimism regarding recent announcement from the Minister of Health reflecting changes in access to screenings for Manitoba women. Borgfjord is a breast cancer survivor and active campaigner with Dense Breasts Canada (DBC) and Breast Screening Advocates Manitoba (BSAM). She has been a leading voice in the movement to advance breast screening protocols in the province. Borgfjord says this policy change benefits women without regular healthcare providers, making critical early detection more accessible.
The Health Minister's recent announcement outlines that by the end of 2025, women in Manitoba can self-refer for screenings starting at age 45, with the age decreasing to 40 by December 2026. Borgfjord believes this shift will save lives and reduce hardship by increasing the chances for earlier detection but stresses the need for continued advocacy, as Manitoba lags behind most provinces in adopting this change.
"This announcement is a victory for Manitobans," Borgfjord shared. "It’s a step forward in addressing the gaps in our guidelines, which will eventually save lives and reduce suffering.”
Since her diagnosis, Borgfjord has participated in public awareness campaigns, organized petitions, and delivered educational sessions, including “Know Your Lemons” presentations to raise awareness about breast cancer. She collaborates with national partners and looks to other provinces that have successfully lowered the screening age and implemented comprehensive breast screening protocols.
On Monday October 28th, 2024, she represented DBC at Manitoba’s first All-party Cancer Caucus Meeting hosted by the Canadian Cancer Survivor Network at the Manitoba Legislative building. Borgfjord presented to over 20 MLAs about the need to allow self-referrals starting at age 40 and expanding access to supplemental screenings for women with dense breast tissue. She says Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara was present for the meeting, and aware of the DBC's advocacy efforts.
"My jaw almost dropped when they walked in. It was a really positive experience, I felt optimistic before, during, and after the meeting. It was obvious they had been reading the communications we have sent and we shared conversation about education and advocacy work."
Borgfjord acknowledges concerns that lowering the screening age could strain the healthcare system but points to provinces such as Nova Scotia, British Columbia, and New Brunswick, which have implemented self-referral for screening at 40 without significant system disruption.
"The suggestion that wait times will be impacted by this policy shift overlooks the experiences of other provinces. Ontario, which recently adopted self-referral at 40, currently reports wait times of 0-2 weeks. With proper resources and planning, Manitoba can ensure a smooth transition.”
To address growing screening needs, DBC advocates for training additional mammography technicians. Borgfjord says a recent conversation with a Manitoba Health official involved the logistics of supporting earlier screenings and managing increased demand. Borgfjord notes the Government of Manitoba is currently advertising for mammography and ultrasound technicians, and DBC and BSAM hope that training incentives and competitive wages will attract skilled professionals.
Though the timeline for lowering the screening age is slower than advocates would like, Borgfjord points out a September 24th phone conversation with the Health Minister’s special advisor indicated that if an earlier rollout becomes feasible, it may be considered. Borgfjord says she and her fellow advocates will monitor progress to ensure that promises remain on track.
“We need people to understand that breast cancer isn’t just a risk for older women, if you feel something’s wrong, insist on imaging like mammography and also ultrasound if you have dense breasts.”
