Dragon Boat Donation Helps to Support State-of-the-Art Breast Cancer Screening

Tuesday October 16th, 2012, 5:33pm

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HDGH radiologist Dr. Brigitte Ala with the hospital’s digital mammography imaging machine. (Handout Photo)

Organizers of the International Dragon Boats for the Cure organizers today delivered a $50,000 cheque in support of its digital mammography program at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital, which due to improved efficiency is in position to accept a higher volume of referrals for breast cancer screening.

Today’s cheque is the second installment on the Dragon Boat’s pledge to cover the $500,000 cost of digital mammography equipment at the hospital. The state-of-the-art equipment was purchased in 2009 and went into service in early 2010.

“Our community recognizes the importance of early detection of breast cancer and we want to give a heartfelt thanks to Gerry Orum and Beth Noakes for their recognition of the tremendous service we provide each year for hundreds of local women,” said Bill Marra, President and Executive Director of Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital Foundation.

Digital mammography uses digital receptors to allow images of the breast to be seen on a computer screen to examine breast tissue for cancer. Unlike an X-ray, digital images can be manipulated so that radiologists can more clearly view results.Dr. Brigitte Ala, lead radiologist for the hospital’s mammography program, says HDGH can often provide one-stop services to patients, where imaging, biopsy and consultation with a breast imaging specialist can be provided in one visit. She also notes that HDGH hosts one of the few programs in Ontario involved in High Risk Breast screening with MRI and is the only site in the Erie-St. Clair LHIN that can provide MRI-guided breast biopsy.

“We are committed to providing top quality breast imaging and care of women who may have abnormalities detected in their breasts at screening or on physical exam,” Dr. Ala said. “I am proud of this program, whose goal is to serve the women of this community with timely access and high quality care.”

“Breast cancer remains a major health concern for women and their families and by working together with community partners like International Dragon Boats for the Cure, we can ensure the best possible defence against the disease is available to them,” added den Boer Grima.