Mobile Mammography Trailer Provides Free Screenings in Langdon

The mobile mammography program known as Screen Test returned to Langdon from October 30 to November 1, offering free screening mammograms to individuals primarily aged between 45 and 74. This initiative aims to ensure that those in rural and underserved areas have access to vital breast cancer screenings, which are essential for early detection and more effective treatment options.

Joan Hauber, the manager of the Screen Test program, emphasized the importance of the mobile service. “What we do with our screen test mobile is we provide screening mammography, so we are screening for breast cancer,” Hauber stated. The program operates two mobile units that travel throughout Alberta, delivering services to communities that may lack access to traditional healthcare facilities. “Our aim is to make sure that everybody, no matter where they live, has the same access to the same service,” she added.

The Screen Test program, which began in 1991, has been instrumental in reaching individuals who may otherwise forgo mammograms due to distance or lack of resources. A mammogram, which is an x-ray of the breast, is recognized as the most effective method for detecting breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is most successful. The mobile units are designed to visit each community along their routes at least once a year, ensuring consistent access to screenings.

Hauber highlighted the program’s impact, noting, “We are seeing people coming to the mobile and they do tell us that if we hadn’t been out there or if they would have had to have traveled, they would not have had a mammogram done.” She pointed out that early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, stating, “When we do find a breast cancer early, there are more options for treatment… and a much better chance of survival.”

In addition to providing services to cisgender women, the mobile screening trailers are also available to transgender, gender-diverse, and non-binary individuals who meet specific criteria. Those outside the targeted demographic are encouraged to seek referrals for screening from their family physicians. “When you find it early, it tends to be smaller, maybe not as invasive as if it has had a chance to grow,” Hauber explained.

Screenings are recommended every two years for the demographic served by the program, although some individuals might require annual screenings based on their personal health needs. The duration of the mobile unit’s stay in each community varies, with visits lasting from a few days to around two weeks. For instance, the trailer was in Strathmore from October 18 to 25 and is set to return on November 10. As of now, all booking slots for the upcoming visit have been filled, but individuals interested in a screening are encouraged to call 1-800-667-0604 to be placed on a waiting list or notified of cancellations.

The Screen Test program continues to play a critical role in promoting breast health and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their location, have access to essential healthcare services.