On June 26, 2025, Women’s College Hospital (WCH) hosted the fourth annual Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening for Black Women event, continuing its commitment to health equity and inclusive care.
Organized by the Peter Gilgan Centre for Women’s Cancers at WCH, in partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society, The Olive Branch of Hope, Women’s Health in Women’s Hands, and University Health Network (UHN), the event provided free cancer screening to 51 participants. Of those, 46 received a Pap/HPV test and 36 underwent mammograms. Additionally, eight patients attended appointments post-event.
“The event was really enjoyable, and I felt relaxed. I never get the chance to have a mammogram done so actually doing it means a lot and I recognize that it’s very important for my health,” shares Frances, a participant who learned of the event through watching TV.
This year marked a significant update with the introduction of HPV testing as a primary cervical cancer screening method – reflecting Ontario’s rollout of the new testing protocol earlier in March.
The event also introduced several new preventative care offerings, including blood glucose checks, point-of-care hemoglobin A1c testing, and consultations with a registered dietitian.
Returning services included:
- Blood pressure checks
- Nurse-led education sessions on cholesterol
- Mindfulness sessions
- Consultations with a clinical social worker
For the second year in a row, University Health Network (UHN) participated by offering lung cancer risk assessments and consultations through the Ontario Lung Screening Program.
Lung cancer screening assessments and consultations by representatives from UHN
Throughout the day, patient navigators played a vital role in ensuring a safe, culturally inclusive and welcoming environment – guiding attendees through the event and offering personalized support. Participants also received tailored health resources for Black women, enjoyed lunch and refreshments, and engaged in arts activities.
Aligned with the vision outlined in WCH’s new Black Health Plan, WCH strives to be an organization that provides equitable and accessible best-in-class healthcare while creating a welcoming, culturally inclusive environment where everyone feels safe to work and receive the healthcare they deserve.
See more photos from the screening event below:
