After reading Donna Wilson's Out & About column and the promotion the Thompson Citizen did for Breast Cancer Awareness Month I would like to let your readers know that it brought to light the important issue of breast health and promoted taking a proactive role in your own breast health and in early cancer detection. Diagnostic testing is key in the prevention and diagnosis of breast and other cancers.
In Thompson, the Burntwood Regional Breast Screening Program and Diagnostic Services of Manitoba's (DSM) mammography, ultrasound and laboratory service departments are all an important part of the early detection of breast cancer. The Thompson General Hospital Imaging Centre has the only mammography machine in Northern Manitoba, which ensures care closer to home for Burntwood residents.
The Manitoba Breast Screening Program is offered to women aged 50 to 75 and requires only a phone call to make an appointment for a mammogram (Toll free: 1-800-903-9290). Women under 50 can request a mammogram through their physician.
Two DSM mammography technologists perform mammograms at Thompson General Hospital. Mammography technologists are specialized medical radiological technologists who have received focused training to use mammography equipment. The field of breast imaging is continually advancing to improve detection and treatment of cancer; mammography technologists must stay current on the latest imaging technology with continued education and training.
The Burntwood Regional Health Care Program and service teams work together to promote healthy communities. The technologists and support staff in Thompson are part of this care team and are proud to play a key role in breast cancer prevention and detection by providing continued care and testing to community patients.
Carmen Hepp
Diagnostic Imaging
Thompson General Hospital
