Quebec Delays Expansion of Breast Cancer Screening for Women Aged 45-49

Quebec's provincial health authorities have postponed plans to expand breast cancer screening to include women aged 45 to 49. This decision follows the recommendations made by the province’s health institute, which suggested that these women should be included in the existing screening program for better early detection of breast cancer. The recommendation was issued over a year ago, and Quebec continues to be the only province or territory in Canada that excludes this age group from its breast cancer screening services.

Nationally, breast cancer screening programs have generally started at the age of 50, with several provinces already implementing lower age criteria based on health advice. The delay in Quebec raises concerns among health advocates who argue that women in this age group are at risk of undiagnosed cases and would benefit from earlier screenings. The health ministry has not provided specific reasons for the delay, and community health organizations are urging the government to reconsider this decision in light of the ongoing discussions surrounding women's health services in the province.