OMA warns of increase in advanced cases of breast cancer as fewer mammograms performed during pandemic

Screenings stopped for only three months during the beginning of COVID-19 at some facilities but the effect was severe. The organization warns that the temporary decrease in testing led to many cases of the disease being diagnosed at later stages. Also, cancer patients are waiting longer for treatment now compared to pre-pandemic times and the Ontario Medical Association says urgent measures are needed to clear the surgical backlog and improve wait times. The delays in screening are leading to poor outcomes for patients and they’re affecting their long-term survival. With 400,000 fewer mammograms in Ont., an estimated 2,800 women may have not been diagnosed on time. The OMA is calling for the creation of Integrated Ambulatory Centers for less complicated outpatient surgeries and procedures.