Get screened for cancer

Detecting cancer early saves lives. Screening helps find cancer before any symptoms appear. In the Yukon, we offer screening programs  for breast, colorectal and cervical cancers.

Why screening matters

Detecting cancer early makes treatment more effective. Screening is for people without symptoms. If you experience symptoms, contact your health care provider as you may need different tests. 
 

Who should get screened

Breast

Most women aged 50 to 74 should be screened every 2 years. We use mammograms to screen for breast cancer.

Colorectal 

Most people aged 50 to 74 should do a FIT test every 2 years. We use a Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kit to screen for colorectal cancer.

Cervical

Women should start screening at whichever is later:

  • The age of 25
  • 3 years after they become sexually active

If results are normal, screen every 2 years. We use a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer.

Higher-risk individuals

Higher-risk individuals may need earlier or more frequent screening based on personal and family medical history. Speak with a health care provider to understand your risk.

If you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms related to the breast, cervix or bowel, contact your health care  provider. Symptoms can include:

  • a new breast lump;
  • abnormal vaginal bleeding;  or
  • changes in bowel habits, especially blood in the stool.  

Cost

Cancer screening is free for eligible Yukoners. This includes:

  • mammograms;
  • FIT kits;
  • Pap tests; and
  • any necessary follow-up care.
Breast screening (Yukon Mammography Program)

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast. It can find cancer before you notice changes. Most women aged 50 to 74 should be screened every 2 years.

Step 1: Check if breast screening is right for you

  • Ages 50 to 74: You’re encouraged to get a screening mammogram every 2 years.
  • Ages 40 to 49: Screening may be beneficial, though evidence on benefits versus risks is less clear. If you’re in this age range, discuss options with your health care provider.
  • Age 75 or older: Ask your health care provider whether to continue screening.
  • Higher risk (for example, family history or genetic factors): You may need earlier or more frequent screening. This should be determined in consultation with a health care provider.

A screening mammogram will not be sufficient if you have symptoms such as:

  • a new lump;
  • nipple discharge;
  • skin changes; or
  • pain.

Reach out to your health care provider for:

  • a medical evaluation; and
  • further testing as soon as possible.

Step 2: Book your appointment

  • You can self-refer for a mammogram if you’re 40 or older and have no symptoms or you can get a referral from your physician.
  • A physician’s referral is required for diagnostic mammograms if you have symptoms including a lump, or changes to your breasts.
  • Phone: 867-393-8738 (Whitehorse General Hospital, Medical Imaging)
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 7 am to 3 pm (closed weekends and holidays)

Step 3: Prepare for your mammogram

  • On the day of your exam, avoid:
    • deodorant;
    • powders; or
    • lotions on your chest or underarms.
  • Wear a 2-piece outfit.
  • Bring your Yukon health care card.
  • Arrive 15 minutes early.

Step 4: During your appointment

  • The appointment takes about 30 minutes.
  • Expect 4 images (2 per breast) under gentle compression.
  • Tell the technologist if you feel uncomfortable at any time.

Step 5: After your mammogram

  • Your images will be reviewed by a radiologist.
  • Results will be sent to your health care provider.
  • You’ll be contacted if you need more tests.

Cost

Screening mammograms are free for eligible Yukoners.

For more information about breast cancer screening, visit Yukon hospitals Mammography page or download the brochure.

Contact

If you have questions about breast cancer screening, phone the Yukon Mammography Program at 867-393-8738.

 

Colon cancer screening (Fecal Immunochemical Test)

The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) looks for small amounts of blood in your stool that you cannot see. It’s:

  • simple;
  • done at home; and
  • helps find early signs of colorectal cancer.

Find more information on colon cancer.

Step 1: Check if FIT is right for you

  • Ages 50 to 74 at average risk should do a FIT test every 2 years.
  • Average risk means you do not have a personal or family history of:
    • colorectal cancer or polyps;
    • inflammatory bowel disease; or
    • a hereditary syndrome.
  • If you’re not sure of your personal or family history, speak with your health care provider.

Contact your health care provider if you have symptoms such as: 

  • persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation);
  • blood in stool;
  • ongoing abdominal pain; or
  • unexplained weight loss. 

Step 2: Request your FIT kit

  • To request your FIT kit, contact the ColonCheck Yukon program using one of the following methods:

Your primary care provider can also request a kit for you.

Step 3: Complete the test at home

  • Read the instructions in the kit.
  • Collect your sample, label it and place it in the return package.

Step 4: Return your sample

  • Return within 2 days of collecting your sample.
  • Drop it off at the Whitehorse General Hospital lab or your community hospital or health centre.

Step 5: Receive your results and next steps

  • Normal: ColonCheck will remind you to repeat FIT in 2 years.
  • Positive: You’ll be referred for a colonoscopy to look more closely. A positive FIT does not mean you have cancer - more testing is required.
  • Unsatisfactory sample: ColonCheck will send you a new kit.

Cost

FIT kits and program follow-up are free for eligible Yukoners.

Contact

If you have questions or to get an at home screening test, email [email protected] or phone 867-667-5497. Phone toll free in the Yukon 1-844-347-9856.
 

Cervix screening (Pap test)

A Pap test checks for cell changes on the cervix that could lead to cancer. Treating these changes early can prevent cancer. For the most up-to-date information, speak with your health care provider or contact the cancer screening office.

Step 1: Check when to start and how often

  • Start screening at age 25, or 3 years after becoming sexually active, whichever is later.
  • Screen every 2 years if your results are normal. Your provider may adjust the schedule based on your results.
  • You may be able to stop around age 69 if you have had 3 negative tests in the last 10 years, or 3 normal annual tests in a row. Ask your health care provider.

Contact your health care provider if you have symptoms such as:

  • unusual bleeding;
  • pelvic pain;
  • or discharge.

Step 2: Book your Pap test.

  • Book with your primary care provider or clinic.

Step 3: Prepare for your appointment

  • Try to book when you are not having your period.
  • Avoid vaginal creams or douching for 48 hours before your test.
  • Bring your Yukon health care card.

Step 4: During your appointment

  • The test takes a few minutes. Your provider will gently collect cells from your cervix.
  • You may feel some pressure or discomfort that should pass quickly.
  • If you’ve experienced pain during previous Pap tests, talk to your health care provider so they can help make the test more comfortable for you.

Step 5: After your test

  • Your provider will explain your results and any follow-up.
  • Some results may require a colposcopy for a closer look.

Cost

Pap tests and follow-up arranged by your provider are free for eligible Yukoners.

Contact

Speak with your primary care provider or local clinic or health centre.
 

Public contacts and provider resources

Key Contacts

Yukon Government Cancer Screening Programs:

ColonCheck Yukon (colorectal screening):

Yukon Mammography Program:

  • Whitehorse General Hospital: Call 867-393-8738 

For more information about the mammography program, download the Yukon Mammography Program brochure.

Resources

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Date modified: 2025-10-06