The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) plays a crucial role in the early detection of breast cancer, which significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. By offering accessible, regular screenings, the OBSP aims to identify breast cancer in its early stages, when it is most treatable. This proactive approach is essential in reducing the mortality rate associated with breast cancer in Ontario.
Osler is a part of the OBSP and provides screenings at multiple locations including: Brampton Civic Hospital, Etobicoke General Hospital and Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness. These facilities ensure that individuals in the area can access high-quality screening services close to home supporting both average (routine) breast screening and high-risk breast screening.
The screening itself involves mammography exams, which use low-dose x-rays to detect abnormalities in breast tissue. If an abnormality is found, further imaging or tests may be required to gain more clarity. While this follow-up can sometimes be stressful, it is important to understand that many of these findings do not necessarily indicate cancer but are part of the thorough process to ensure that any potential issues are addressed.
For many individuals, receiving a normal mammogram result brings a sense of relief, knowing that they have taken a key step in protecting their health. Regular participation in the OBSP can be a critical factor in saving lives by detecting cancer early and preventing it from developing into a more serious condition.
Program eligibility
The OBSP offers breast cancer screening to women, Two-Spirit, transgender and nonbinary people within the following age groups if they have no breast cancer symptoms or personal history of breast cancer, have not had a mastectomy or a screening mammogram within the last 11 months, and if transfeminine, have used feminizing hormones for at least five years in a row.
- People of ages 40 to 49 can speak with their family doctor, nurse practitioner or a Health811 navigator to make an informed decision about whether breast cancer screening is right for them. Most people in this age group who decide to get screened for breast cancer should get screened with mammography every two years.
- People of ages 50 to 74 at average risk of developing breast cancer are recommended to have a screening mammogram every two years. People over the age of 74 can be screened within the OBSP; however, they are encouraged to make a personal decision about breast cancer screening in consultation with a family doctor or nurse practitioner.
- People of ages 30 to 69 who meet specific criteria such as having a gene mutation or a significant family history of breast cancer, are eligible for High-Risk OBSP. Those eligible receive annual screening, which includes both a mammogram and a breast MRI.
Booking an exam
Eligible individuals interested in participating in the OBSP can easily self-refer for their average/routine breast screening by calling the OBSP booking office at 905-494-6688. For those who prefer to have their health care provider make the referral, provider requisitions can also be faxed to 905-494-6507. This flexible approach ensures that people have convenient access to the screening services they need.
Please note: Patients eligible for high-risk breast screening require a referral from their health care provider.
Breast screening appointments and services are available during the following times:
- Brampton Civic: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Supports high risk breast screening each day and average risk (routine) breast screening on Fridays only
- Etobicoke General: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Supports both average risk (routine) breast screening and high-risk breast screening
- Peel Memorial: Monday to Thursday from 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Supports average risk (routine) breast screening
Get directions and parking information for each of our hospitals.
Preparing for an exam
- Avoid using deodorants, talcum powder or lotions on the day of your appointment
- Inform your physician about any relevant breast symptoms, history of surgeries, hormone use and personal or family history of breast cancer
- Ensure previous mammogram results are available, if applicable
- Notify the technologist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or may be pregnant
For more information on the OBSP, please visit the Cancer Care Ontario website.
