Róisín Shortall
Ceist:97 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps he will take to encourage more women to do a monthly breast check; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25597/01]
Written Answers. - Cancer Screening Programme.
A new national breast cancer helpline established by Action Breast Cancer, a project of the Irish Cancer Society, was officially launched on 1 October last by my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Hanafin, to mark the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This launch also saw the release of the IMS survey referred to by the Deputy, on women's knowledge of breast cancer and their awareness of early detection measures. While it is recommended that women check their breasts once a month for unusual changes, the survey found that only one in three women check their breasts on at least a monthly basis. This survey has armed ABC with considerable knowledge as to how it can direct its efforts to increase women's knowledge of breast cancer and make them more breast aware.
ABC has been established to provide breast cancer information and support and to fund breast cancer research. During the month of October, ABC is running the "Pink Ribbon" campaign to promote breast awareness and help fund the cost of its education initiative. Its specially designed breast awareness leaflet provides very clear and comprehensive information on the complete process of becoming breast aware. The new helpline is operated by experienced breast care nurses who have been specially trained to provide expert information and support for those concerned about breast cancer. ABC has also produced information cards, providing a step by step guide on how to look and feel for any changes in the breast. In conjunction with the State agencies and the private sector, it is intended to distribute breast awareness literature free to half a million women countrywide, encouraging them to report any unusual breast changes to their doctors immediately.