This April, the pilot for population screening for breast cancer will start on Saba. In the coming two
years, all women between 50 and 75 years will be invited to participate. The start of this screening
program on Saba is the result of collaboration between RIVM, Saba Cares, and St Maarten Medical
Center (SMMC). Early detection is critical to successful treatment and often involves less invasive
interventions. If breast cancer is found early, there is also a better chance of survival.
Intake
During the period of two years all women in the age group will be called by Saba Cares and invited for
an intake appointment. During the intake, the screening coordinator explains the process including
the logistics, and each participant receives all information regarding the breast cancer screening
program. Participants will travel in groups of six with a charter flight to St. Maarten. Screenings will
take place at SMMC on Wednesdays, once or twice a month. Participation is free.
Reliable quality
The laboratory technicians at St. Maarten Medical Center have been trained to take screening
mammograms (X-rays). The Dutch Expert Centre for Screening is responsible for their training and the
quality of the screening.
Agreements on follow-up care
Agreements have been made with Saba Cares and St. Maarten Medical Center about follow-up care.
Saba Cares informs the women who were screened about any detected abnormalities and will also
refer them to the specialists at St. Maarten Medical Center for follow-up testing. We will strive to
have a follow-up appointment within a week. Depending on the results, SMMC will arrange further
testing and necessary treatment.
Women’s Meeting
Saba Cares will host on Sunday April 16, 2023 , from 4pm -7pm a Breast Cancer Screening launch
party along with a small presentation of the topic at Ocean Club Saba.
For more information about the Breast Screenings program, please contact Saba Cares at +599
4163288 and press option 4 or by visiting https://www.facebook.com/screeningCN
