Colorectal cancer testing is currently offered at select regional service points in all regions of Quebec to facilitate access to this service across the province.
In a press release issued Monday, Quebec Health Minister Christian Dube announced that Quebecers can now make reservations through the Clic Santé web portal or by phone.
The purpose of this announcement is to make colorectal cancer screening more quickly available to people aged 50 to 74, with or without a doctor’s referral.
Officials say this age group is most likely to develop this type of cancer.
Since 2013, access to screening is based on whether a doctor or nurse prescribes the test.
Colorectal cancer is currently the second leading cause of cancer death in Quebec.
The government says it wants to increase the number of people tested each year to detect cancer before symptoms appear.
It is hoped that by allowing other professionals, such as nurses, to provide tests, it will ease pressure on hospitals that are already overwhelmed.
The Ministry of Health points out that living a healthy, active lifestyle and reducing smoking and intake of alcohol and processed meat may help prevent colorectal cancer.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews
