Fine Gael Seanad Spokesperson for Health, Colm Burke today highlighted the findings of the National Breast Screening Report for 2010 – 2011.
“Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in Ireland and has the second highest mortality rate. Nearly 2,500 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland each year according to the BreastCheck Report.
“BreastCheck provides a free and confidential service to women aged between 50 – 64. Women will receive their first appointment to attend a check-up within two years of becoming known to the programme”, he stated.
“In the event that breast cancer is detected, Breastcheck aims to fully explain the treatment available, encourages the patient to involve relatives and friends on decisions relating to treatment and seeks to have the patient admitted for treatment within three weeks of diagnosis.
“The outcome of first screens conducted by the HSE in the Southern region showed that; over 17,000 women were screened, there were 154 cancers detected and the number of cancers detected per 1,000 women screened was 9.1.
“The main findings of the Report nationally showed that during 2010 and 2011;
- BreastCheck invited 167,088 women for screening.
- Over 120,730 women attended their screening appointment.
- 814 breast cancers were detected.
- For 46,405 women it was their first BreastCheck mammogram.
- The number of women that attended their breastcheck appointment exceeded the Programme’s target.
“Medical research in the US has shown that 85%of breast cancer occurs in women that have no family history of breast cancer. Screening can save lives and it is imperative that women keep their appointments when BreastCheck when they are issued”, he concluded.
For more information on the BreastCheck programme visit www.breastcheck.ie or phone 1800 45 45 55.
