Breast health
Breasts change over a lifetime (pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, aging etc.) Every woman can play an active role in maintaining healthy breasts. The simplest way to improve both general and specific breast health is to adopt a healthy lifestyle by:
- Exercising regularly;
- Eating healthy;
- Stoping smoking and avoiding second hand smoke;
- Limiting alcohol consumption;
- For women aged 50 to 69, have a mammogram every two years.
Quebec breast cancer screening program
The Quebec breast cancer screening program (PQDCS) was established in Abitibi-Témiscamingue in 1999.
Once a woman reaches the age of 50, she will receive a letter from the regional coordination services inviting her to schedule an appointment for a mammogram. Women who agree to undergo such an exam receive a reminder every two years. A reminder is sent to women who have not responded to the invitation or to the reminder after a few months.