Quebec cancer screening questioned after woman found cancer while pregnant

A pregnant Quebec woman discovered breast cancer by chance, and experts say the province needs earlier or better screening while facing resource and staffing pressures.

When Salimeh Maghsoudlou felt a lump during pregnancy, cancer was not expected; tests later confirmed breast cancer and she began treatment while still pregnant. She says routine breast examinations were not part of prenatal care she received in Quebec, unlike care she had elsewhere. Experts and the Canadian Cancer Society note Quebec reports the highest cancer incidence in Canada and call for better organized screening and care. Key facts: - A Quebec woman discovered a breast lump while pregnant and was later diagnosed with breast cancer; she received treatment during and after pregnancy. - Quebec reports the highest cancer incidence rates in Canada for both men and women, with lung, breast, prostate and colorectal cancers most commonly diagnosed. - Quebec currently does not have a provincewide colorectal cancer screening program, according to experts cited in the article. - Advocacy groups and the Canadian Cancer Society say staffing shortages and limited resources are slowing progress; Quebec's Health Ministry did not respond to requests for comment by the article's deadline. Summary: The personal case has prompted experts to call for clearer screening plans and more organized care in Quebec; advocacy groups say changes hinge on available resources and budget decisions. Undetermined at this time.