Mobile mammography service coming to Ponoka

PONOKA -- Free breast cancer screening will be available in Ponoka in January.

This is according to Primary Care Alberta, which says their mobile mammography trailer will be at the Ponoka Community Health Centre on January 10 and January 12 to 17. Screening is available at no cost for eligible individuals 45 to 74 years of age.

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of breast tissue used for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Early detection via these procedures significantly improves breast cancer treatment outcomes, as Primary Care Alberta says screening mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early when treatment may work better.

In addition to mobile mammography clinics, screening can also be performed at specific radiology clinics and some hospitals. Individuals aged 45 to 74 can discuss their breast cancer risk with their healthcare providers to determine whether screening is appropriate for them and book with a radiology clinic or with Screen Test mobile mammography. For more information, residents can visit screeningforlife.ca/where-to-get-screened.ca.

Ponoka residents can call 1-800-667-0604 to book an appointment or learn more about the program.