In the summer of 2020, Elysia Bryan, a resident of Toronto, discovered a lump in her right breast. Despite being healthy and active at 34, Bryan initially chose to overlook the lump, hoping it would vanish on its own. However, as the lump persisted and became painful, she eventually sought medical attention in April 2021.
After visiting her family doctor, Bryan underwent a mammogram and biopsy, leading to a breast cancer diagnosis at St. Michael’s Hospital. Following a lumpectomy, she underwent an extensive treatment regimen, including chemotherapy, radiation, genetic testing, mastectomy, and reconstruction, ultimately achieving a cancer-free status.
Bryan now advocates for breast cancer screening, emphasizing the importance of early detection for successful treatment outcomes. Working with The Olive Branch of Hope, an organization supporting Black women with breast cancer, she highlights the increasing number of young women being diagnosed with the disease.
A recent study by the Hologic Global Women’s Health Index revealed that only 15% of Canadian women and 25% of American women underwent breast or cervical cancer screening in the past year. The study, conducted in collaboration with Gallup, identified lower screening rates among women with lower incomes, ethnic minorities, and newcomers.
Ontario’s decision to lower the mammogram self-referral age by a decade aimed to enhance early detection and treatment accessibility. Despite the change benefiting women in their 40s, data from Ontario Health indicated that only about 21% of eligible women in this age group have undergone screening since the amendment.
Dr. Supriya Kulkarni, a breast imaging radiologist, emphasized the importance of reaching underserved communities, such as immigrants, refugees, and those facing language barriers or economic pressures. Efforts to improve outreach and screening participation, particularly among younger individuals, are crucial for detecting breast cancer at earlier stages.
Dr. Ritika Goel, a Toronto-based family doctor, highlighted disparities in healthcare access for socially marginalized groups, leading to lower screening rates among racialized and immigrant women. Ontario Health’s initiatives, including multilingual educational materials and preventive care programs, aim to raise awareness and enhance screening among underserved populations.
By leveraging advancements in screening technologies and promoting awareness, the goal is to increase screening uptake, save lives, and address disparities in breast cancer screening and treatment.
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