BC Cancer Screening and Prevention

06/17/2026

When Nicole from the BC Cancer Indigenous Health Promotions team got her cervix self-screening kit in the mail, she shared with friends on social media about how quick and easy it was to do.

With her permission, we’re sharing her story so more people can benefit from her experience too.

06/16/2026

The mobile mammography coach was back in Daajing Giids, parked in front of the hospital Ruth now works at. Every two years she got her mammogram done on what she and her friends like to call the “Boob Bus.”

Ruth had gotten many mammograms before, so she wasn’t nervous as she walked across the parking lot and was greeted by the technologist. She started screening because her grandmother had breast cancer and because Ruth considered it part of her self-care. It always felt like a safe space to her, where she could ask questions and feel heard by the technologists.

The Haida Gwaii resident was screened on a Tuesday, and on that Friday got a call from Prince Rupert Regional Hospital asking her to come for a diagnostic mammogram. Luckily this was in the summer when there are frequent ferries and Ruth was able to get to her appointment.

That diagnostic mammogram was unexpectedly followed by an ultrasound and then also a biopsy. It turned out that she had breast cancer. Luckily it was caught in time and Ruth was able to have surgery to remove it followed by radiation.

Although she didn’t need chemotherapy Ruth experienced “chemo brain,” a feeling of fogginess from the impact of getting a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. On top of this she was managing personal family tragedies. Ruth was grateful to BC Cancer for connecting her with counselling to give her tools for her mental health.

Now cancer free, Ruth enjoys biking, yoga, swimming, and walking, while taking in all the beauty that the land and sea of Haida Gwaii have to offer.

She encourages her friends to get screened and has been told by some “I got a mammogram because of you – I had never had one before until you shared your story.”

Like her friends, Ruth encourages you to get a mammogram. If you’re not comfortable on your own, she recommends taking a friend.

The coach is returning to Haida Gwaii July 9-17. Book your mammogram today: screeningbc.ca/breast

Are you a MRT who is interested in helping people like Ruth catch cancer early while getting to travel to beautiful locations around the province? Apply to join the BC Cancer team today: https://jobs.phsa.ca/job/mammography-technologist-screening-mammography-program-bc-mobile-operations-bc-provincial

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Screening mammograms are available to most women, and many Two-Spirit, trans and non-binary individuals, 40 years and older with no symptoms.  

06/13/2026

A good reminder to practice sun safety as the UV rises.

Find sun safety tips: bccancer.bc.ca/prevention/sun-safety

06/13/2026

Think some types of alcohol is safer than others?

Whether it's wine, beer, cider, or spirits, it's the alcohol in the drink that causes harm. What matters most is how much and how often you drink, not the beverage type.

If you choose to drink alcohol, having 1-2 standard drinks per week is considered low risk. The less alcohol you drink, the lower your cancer risk.

Looking for ways to cut back? Visit bccancer.bc.ca/prevention/alcohol.

06/11/2026

Help shape the future of breast screening across BC.

BC Cancer is hiring a Provincial Practice Leader, Breast Screening Technologists (temporary full-time) to advance imaging quality and professional practice across the province.

In this provincial leadership role, you will:

◾Guide technologist practice by developing standards
◾Support recruitment, retention, and ongoing professional development
◾Strengthen quality assurance through site visits, image audits, and competency evaluation
◾Support CAR accreditation
◾Advise on equipment, staffing, and technical operations

You’ll collaborate with program leaders and partners to ensure safe, consistent, high-quality breast screening services for patients across BC, while fostering a culture of mentorship, learning and equity.

We’re looking for an experienced, CAMRT-certified mammography technologist with strong leadership skills and a demonstrated commitment to Indigenous Cultural Safety, anti-racism and patient-centred care.

Learn more and apply: https://jobs.phsa.ca/job/provincial-practice-leader-breast-screening-technologists-bc-cancer-vancouver

06/09/2026

Evidence consistently supports limiting processed meat intake for cancer prevention, particularly colorectal cancer.

Processed meats include:

• Bacon

• Sausages

• Hot dogs

• Deli meats

Practical strategies:

✔ Reduce portion sizes

✔ Choose plant proteins more often

✔ Incorporate fibre-rich foods at meals

Sustainable dietary patterns matter more than restriction.

06/05/2026

Happy ! Donut forget to screen.

06/04/2026

Screening is meant to help stop or catch cancer early before symptoms start. If you are experiencing symptoms don't wait for screening. Talk to a health care provider right away.

Learn more about symptoms:
Breast screeningbc.ca/breast/who-should-screen/if-you-have-symptoms
Cervix screeningbc.ca/cervix/who-should-screen/if-you-have-symptoms
Colon screeningbc.ca/colon/who-should-screen/if-you-have-symptoms
Lung screeningbc.ca/lung/who-should-screen/if-you-have-symptoms

06/03/2026

Celebrate Pride Month with PHSA! Every June and throughout the longer Pride season into August, people across North America come together to celebrate, honour, and show support for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

As a provincial health authority, we are committed to building welcoming, positive spaces where 2SLGBTQIA+ patients, clients and staff feel respected, supported, and celebrated.

Watch for PHSA volunteers from across our programs at parades, festivals and community celebrations over the next few months!

06/01/2026

Join our team!

Looking for meaningful work and adventure?

BC Cancer is seeking a Mammography Technologist for the Mobile Operation of their Screening Mammography Program. This unique role combines high‑impact patient care with the opportunity to travel across British Columbia, delivering essential screening services to communities throughout the province.

You’ll work a 2‑weeks‑on / 2‑weeks‑off schedule, offering extended time off while being part of a supportive, mission‑driven team.

If you enjoy working independently and love travelling, apply today: https://ow.ly/oSFx50Z5mXn

Photo credit: Michelle Mondor