Irish Cancer Society Launches Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2011 in partnership with Vhi Healthcare

Breast Cancer risk can be reduced by up to 42%

Women can reduce their risk of breast cancer by up to 42%* by making lifestyle changes such as being more physically active, drinking less alcohol and having a better diet. At the launch of the Irish Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in partnership with Vhi Healthcare, guests were told that in high-income countries such as Ireland, approximately four in ten breast cancer cases can be linked to alcohol, body fatness and physical inactivity.

Speaking at the launch Maya Monteiro, Health Professionals Programme Manager for the World Cancer Research Fund, said: “The fact that Ireland has the world’s seventh highest breast cancer rate means it is really important that women in Ireland know that making lifestyle changes can make a real difference to their breast cancer risk.

“There is strong evidence they can reduce their breast cancer risk by maintaining a healthy weight, being regularly physically active and reducing the amount of alcohol they drink. As well as reducing their risk of breast cancer, making these kinds of changes can help prevent other type of cancers. In fact, scientists estimate about a third of the most common cancers could be prevented by eating a healthy diet, being regularly physically active and maintaining a healthy weight”.

Naomi Fitzgibbon, Cancer Information Services Manager, Irish Cancer Society said “Many different factors contribute to the development of breast cancer but the fact that we now know key things such as everyday diet and lifestyle choices have a key role to play is very positive.

“Action Breast Cancer, a programme of the Irish Cancer Society, is ten years old this year and since it began we have been striving for women in Ireland to become breast aware and for any stigma that surrounded breast cancer to be removed. We have also lobbied for the provision of world class services and an excellent standard of care for women with breast cancer.  We have achieved a great amount in that time and women in Ireland are now living longer having had breast cancer. This is down to early detection of breast cancer, advances in treatments and the introduction of screening”.

“We now need to look at the challenge for the next ten years. We want every woman to know what they can do to reduce their risk of breast cancer, and for those that have breast cancer or any concerns about breast health, that we are here to support them.”

Dr Bernadette Carr, Medical Director, Vhi Healthcare said “Advances in medicine as well as better and earlier detection and treatment of breast cancer in this country have moved apace in the past 10 years. Vhi Healthcare has been at the heart of this provision of care, ensuring our members can benefit from the advances in medical technology and medication, and helping to deliver the best outcomes for patients. At Vhi Healthcare we are hopeful that our partnership with the Irish Cancer Society can help to increase awareness and bring relief, hope and optimism to those diagnosed with breast cancer and to their families and friends.”

Minister Roisin Shortall, Minister of State with responsibility for Primary Care said “It is very heartening to see that latest figures from the National Cancer Registry show that breast cancer survival is continuing to improve. Earlier detection as well as improved treatment methods are both key to this improvement. Breast screening aims to detect breast cancer at the earliest possible stage and is free for women covered by the BreastCheck programme. I would urge all women to attend for screening when called by BreastCheck”.

The Irish Cancer Society’s 2011 Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign is delivered in partnership with Vhi Healthcare. Since the Irish Cancer Society introduced Breast Cancer Awareness Month to Ireland we have been committed to educating women on Breast Health and have encouraged every woman in Ireland to “Know your Breasts - Know what is normal for you.” The Irish Cancer Society’s Pink Ribbon Appeal will also run throughout October raising vital funds for services at Action Breast Cancer as well as supporting the brightest minds in Ireland working on cutting edge Breast Cancer Research.

For information and advice on any aspect of Breast Health or Breast Cancer call the National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700 or go to www.cancer.ie