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CANCER: THEN AND NOW

When you consider that some of the earliest evidence of cancer was found in mummies in ancient Egypt, it’s understandable that the fight against cancer can seem daunting. It’s been around for a very long time. However, in the later half of the twentieth century modern technology helped scientists make great strides in the study, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, underscoring why supporting cancer research is so important.

In fact, the overall cancer survival rate has increased from 25% in the 1940s to 60% today. That’s thanks to the growth in knowledge about cancer biology, which in turn has led to:

  • Better education about cancer prevention strategies and behavior, such as the importance of a healthy diet and exercise.
  • Improved technology for regular screening and earlier detection of cancer, such as mammography, MRI, prostate screening blood tests, colorectal cancer stool tests, genetic screening, etc.
  • Increased variety and success of cancer treatment options, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, less-invasive and more targeted surgical treatments, etc.

Along with increased survival rates, however, cancer diagnoses have increased as well. According to the Canadian Cancer Society:

  • 2 in 5 Canadians (44% of men and 43% of women) are expected to develop cancer during their lifetime.
  • About 1 out of 4 Canadians (26% of men and 22% of women) is expected to die from cancer.
  • Lung, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer are the top four most diagnosed cancers. These 4 cancers account for 46% of all new cancer cases.

HOW CAN CANCER BE PREVENTED?

We currently know quite a bit about cancer. We know that it develops when normal cells start to grow out of control and form new abnormal cells, usually as a result of damaged DNA. We know many causes for damaged DNA, but there is still much research to be done on effectively treating the many varieties of cancer.

However, there are steps that can be taken to prevent cancer. About 4 in 10 cancer cases can be prevented by:

  • Live smoke-free – This is the most important way to reduce your risk of cancer.
  • Enjoy the sun safely – Protect your skin and eyes.
  • Maintain a healthy body weight.
  • Eat well.
  • Move more, sit less – Not enough physical activity and too much sitting increases your cancer risk. Aim for 30 minutes of activity every day and take frequent, short breaks from sitting.
  • Limit alcohol – Drinking any type or amount of alcohol increases your risk of developing cancer.
  • Understand hormones – The birth control pill and hormone replacement therapy may increase your risk of cancer. Understand the risks and benefits.
  • Get vaccinated – Some viruses cause cancer. Check with your doctor about whether a hepatitis B or HPV vaccine is a good idea for you.
  • Get screened – For certain age or population groups, screening tests can help find breast (mammography), lung (CT), and colorectal (virtual colonoscopy) cancers before you’ve even noticed symptoms.

 

REFERENCES

Canadian Cancer Society (2022) “Cancer statistics at a glance.” www.cancer.ca. Accessed October 24, 2022.

Harvard Medical School (2019) “Mars vs. Venus: The gender gap in health.” Harvard Health Publishing. Accessed October 24, 2022.

Statistics Canada (2019) “Changes in life expectancy by selected causes of death, 2017.” www.statcan.gc.ca. Accessed October 24, 2022.

Sudhakar, A. (2009) “History of Cancer, Ancient and Modern Treatment Methods.” Journal of Cancer Science and Therapy. Dec 1; 1(2): 1–4. Accessed October 24, 2022.

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What We Do

At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.

At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.

We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:

  • MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight

  • Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health

  • Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care

  • Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life

But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.

We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.

Who We Are.

To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.

But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.

At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

The Inside Story

WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace

At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.

Key Points:

  • Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.

  • Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.

  • Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).

  • Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.

Vision & Mission:

  • Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”

  • Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”