Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the recent report by a person (details supplied) regarding breast health and the need for further promotion and breast awareness; his plans to continue raising awareness on this important issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48103/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Report to which the Deputy refers, found that among the cohort of 449 women surveyed at two breast care clinics in Ireland, more than 50% were unaware of less common breast cancer symptoms and over 30% waited over a month to report their symptoms to their GP.

Early diagnosis of breast cancer is linked to more favourable outcomes and longer survival and the study highlights the need for continued promotion of breast awareness and prompt help-seeking by women with symptoms.

The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has developed and implemented a training programme for nurses who work in primary care, with a particular focus on practice nurses. This course covers cancer prevention, referral and patient assessment, treatment and post-acute care. The NCCP has also developed national GP referral guidelines and a standard referral form for breast cancer making the referral process more seamless and efficient. Voluntary agencies working in the area of cancer prevention also promote the need to be aware of the signs of breast cancer, so that early intervention can be offered.

I would encourage any woman irrespective of her age who has immediate concerns or symptoms to contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic breast cancer services in her area.