When my mother turned 75, she received a letter from Ontario Health informing her that she would no longer be eligible to receive mammograms through their health program. This devastating policy became a harsh reality for us when my mom, who just turned 80 in March, was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in September. Her prognosis is bleak, as there is no chance of a cure.

Age should not be a barrier to receiving preventative health care. Women over 75 continue to lead active, vibrant lives, and have the right to maintain their health and wellbeing. Breast cancer is a serious health issue that affects thousands of women in Canada every year. It is the most common type of cancer among Canadian women, with 1 in 8 being diagnosed in their lifetime. Early detection through regular screening is crucial to increasing survival rates and reducing mortality. By not providing women over the age of 75 this essential service, the medical system is putting them at greater risk of a late-stage cancer diagnosis.

While some may argue about the cost or necessity of mammograms for older women, the statistics and expert recommendations highlight the significant benefits of ongoing screening. Early detection and treatment are often more cost-effective than treating advanced cancers. Moreover, older women who are diagnosed at an early stage have the same treatment options available as younger women, which can lead to better health outcomes and quality of life.

We call on the Ontario Ministry of Health to reinstate and extend mammogram screenings to women over the age of 75. By doing so, we ensure healthier outcomes for our senior citizens and prevent the heartbreak and suffering experienced by families like ours.