The arrival of advanced breast imaging technology is being celebrated at Bluewater Health as Breast Cancer Awareness Month kicks off.
The hospital recently implemented Savi Scout technology, which enhances breast cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment for patients across Sarnia-Lambton.
In addition, the hospital has invested in CADstream software to strengthen breast MRI analysis. The tool supports radiologists in interpreting scans more effectively, leading to more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning.
Diagnostic Imaging Director Dr. Youssef Almalki said Bluewater Health is committed to investing in breast health for optimum patient experience and outcomes.
"With advancements like Savi Scout and CADstream, we are able to offer patients the very best in breast imaging and treatment planning close to home," said Dr. Almalki.
"Instead of putting a wire, we put in this little seed localizer [when using the Savi Scout]. It's wireless and it's a radar reflector. Then at the time of surgery, the surgeon has a magic wand that emits ultraviolet light. That little seed reflects it and tells them exactly where the tumour is. Because of that, they can really just cut around the tumour and take the least amount of tissue as they can," he said.
"The biggest hurdle to this was the actual cost of the reflector, relative to the wire. The wire only costs about $20, this costs around $500. But, we see that as worth it for the patient because of the better results that they get," Dr. Almalki added.
While new technology is expanding diagnostic and surgical options, he said early detection remains critical.
"Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and it impacts everybody," Dr. Almalki said. "So, we really just want to encourage people to get their breast screening done. Your future self will thank you for it. We're here to do the screening, please take advantage of it. It's free, it's covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) and we certainly have all of the top shelf technology to help you through anything that we find."
The Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) offers free screening for patients aged 40–74.
Appointments can be self-referred online at bluewaterhealth.ca/mammography or by calling (519) 464-4400 ext. 4515.
Bluewater Health said the average mammogram takes less than 10 minutes and can detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
For women aged 40–49, screening is particularly important: 13 per cent of breast cancer cases in Ontario are diagnosed in this age group, and more than 85 per cent of all breast cancer patients have no family history of the disease.
The Bluewater Health Foundation is hosting a fundraising event on Wednesday, October 1 to further support breast imaging.
Brews for Breasts will be held at Refined Fool Brewing Co. on London Road in Sarnia from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
From 3 p.m. to close, 15 per cent of all food, beverage, and merchandise sales will benefit the local mammography department.
