During her pregnancy, Salimeh Maghsoudlou unexpectedly discovered a lump in her breast, unaware that it was cancerous. Despite feeling healthy, the federal public servant and policy analyst underwent chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019.
Maghsoudlou expressed surprise that routine breast examinations were not part of her prenatal care in Quebec, unlike in other countries she had lived in. This revelation came against the backdrop of Quebec reporting the highest cancer incidence rate in Canada, particularly for lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers.
Dr. Denis Soulières, a hematologist-oncologist and spokesperson for the Canadian Cancer Society, emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent and screen for diseases effectively. While Quebec has breast cancer screening guidelines, there is a notable gap in colorectal cancer screening programs compared to other provinces.
Advocacy groups highlight the strain on the healthcare system, citing staffing shortages and limited resources as obstacles to progress in cancer prevention and treatment. Despite challenges, Quebec’s Health Ministry noted a decline in cancer mortality rates and the availability of screening programs for colorectal, breast, lung, and cervical cancers.
Maghsoudlou, now in good health along with her son, acknowledges the lasting emotional impact of her cancer experience. She underscores that the fear of mortality remains a lingering reminder of her battle against the disease.
