The pages accessible in English concern access to services and security in regard with health and social services, in accordance with the Charter of the French language regulations. 

Accessibility online and in the facilities

- Project ALLO - Staff and volunteers wearing a yellow card holder can speak English and help you find your way around the facilities.- 
- Interpreter services - To obtain the services of an interpreter, speak with your doctor or staff when scheduling an appointment.- 
- Service navigators and liaison officer - In order to support and accompany Indigenous people in their care and service experience and promote mutual understanding of the information exchanged between caregivers and patients, there is a resource available in Val-d'Or.
- Translate a Web page - If a page is available only in French, you can translate it in your browser. Click right on the page and look for the translation button.
- Need help? Google Chrome – Microsoft Edge – Safari

Breast Health

Breasts change over the course of life (pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, aging, etc.). Every woman can play an active role in keeping her breasts healthy. The easiest way to improve both your general health and the specific health of your breasts is to adopt healthy lifestyle habits.

  • Exercise regularly. Women who engage in moderate activity for 30 to 60 minutes about 4 times a week see their risk of developing breast cancer decrease by 21 to 35%, according to studies.
  • Eat healthy. Choosing low-fat, high-fibre foods and eating five fruits and vegetables a day helps maintain a healthy weight and prevent breast cancer. According to Health Canada, increasing weight by more than five kilograms during adulthood is a risk factor for breast cancer after menopause.
  • Quit smoking and avoid exposure to tobacco smoke. In some studies, smoking and second-hand smoke are associated with breast cancer. Tobacco smoke is responsible for 30% of all cancer deaths.
  • Limit your alcohol consumption. Women who drink two to three drinks a day increase their risk of developing breast cancer by 40%.
  • For women 50 to 69 years of age, have a screening mammogram every two years.

  

Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program

The Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program (PQDCS) has been implemented in Abitibi-Témiscamingue since 1999. The Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CISSS) de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue is recognized as a Designated Screening Centre (CDD) that can provide screening mammography services. Fixed-term contracts are subject to rigorous quality standards.

When a woman turns 50, she receives a letter from the Regional Service Coordination Centre inviting her to make an appointment for a screening mammogram. Women who choose to take this exam then receive a reminder letter every two years. A reminder letter is sent to women who have not responded to the invitation or reminder after a few months.