Press Release
The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) is going out on the road again this summer on the “Pink Tour,” letting women know that one-third of breast cancers are preventable and that regular screening saves lives.
This year’s tour, which includes a stop at Cloverleaf Grocery in Emo this Sunday (Aug. 18) from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., is empowering women to make informed choices and take steps to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.
Mortality rates for breast cancer are declining—thanks to improved screening technology, earlier diagnoses, and better treatments.
But one-in-nine Canadian women still will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
While women aged 50-74 can receive a mammogram without a doctor’s referral and at no cost, currently only 61 percent of women in Ontario are being screened.
Research also shows women are not aware that they can take steps to reduce their risk of breast cancer.
“Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation is thrilled to be once again visiting over 90 communities this summer,” said Sandra Palmaro, CEO, CBCF-Ontario Region.
“We hope that women and their friends and families stop by to learn about how they can reduce their risk of breast cancer and the benefits of breast cancer screening,” she added.
CBCF, with the support of CIBC and Shoppers Drug Mart, invites Ontarians to get on board the 46-foot “Pink Tour” bus to learn about steps they can take to help reduce their risk of breast cancer and about the benefits of breast cancer screening.
The “Pink Tour” is an engaging, interactive learning experience about breast health and while on board, visitors can take fun quizzes, use interactive videos, and record personal video pledges to live well.
Women who are eligible also will be able to sign up for a mammogram with the Ontario Breast Screening Program, a program administered by Cancer Care Ontario.
“As part of our commitment to the health and well-being of Canadians, and our specific focus on women’s health, the ‘Pink Tour’ represents a significant opportunity for Shoppers Drug Mart to help educate and empower women across the province on their breast health,” said president and CEO Domenic Pilla.
“Through our Shoppers Drug Mart WOMEN program, our associates-owners and their store teams have embraced opportunities, like the ‘Pink Tour,’ that can help women achieve their optimal health in body, mind, and spirit,” Pilla remarked.
Women can reduce their risk of breast cancer and recurrence through diet, maintaining a healthier body weight, regular physical activity, drinking less alcohol, quitting smoking, limiting use of hormone therapy during menopause, and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals at home and work.
More information on the “Pink Tour” can be found at www.cbcf.org/PinkTour
