October 29, 2009

Throughout October, the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) – Northwest challenged women age 50 and older to drop in or make a mammogram appointment as a new client of OBSP. Their goal was to screen 150 women in one day at six locations across the region.

Not only did they meet their goal; they exceeded it.

On October 26, 2009, OBSP sites in Thunder Bay, Fort Frances and Kenora screened 175 women between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., thanks to the enthusiasm of staff and volunteers and the willingness of women to take the challenge and participate in the breast screening promotion.

Lori Della Vedova, Manager of Cancer Screening Programs at Regional Cancer Care, said she is thrilled with the results.

“Our goal was to bring new clients to OBSP who have never been screened before by our program. Once a woman has participated in OBSP screening, she will be automatically reminded when her next mammogram is due,” she said.

“By taking part in the 150 Over 50 Challenge, these women have done a great service for themselves. We encourage all women to be breast aware – to know how your breasts look and feel - and all women age 50 and over should have regular mammograms every two years.”

Della Vedova added that new clients can still call until Nov. 13, 2009 to book their first OBSP appointment and be eligible for a $100 gift card draw.

For more information, women can call 684-7777 or toll-free at 1-800-461-7031.

The OBSP-Northwest extends a big thank-you to The Body Shop, who provided gifts for the 150 Over 50 draw and to media partners Dougallmedia and the Chronicle Journal, whose excellent promotion of the program led to its success.

:: back to Media Releases ::