Broadcaster and patron of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute Gráinne Seoige is urging people to organise a fundraising event at their home or workplace in aid of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute.
Her appeal marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month which began last week. She says the NBCRI, which is based in the city, plays a unique role.
“There are many organisations nationwide fundraising for breast cancer awareness but the NBCRI’s role is unique. Its research can help to ascertain the causes and factors that influence breast cancer and therefore help to develop effective screening, treatments and medication to combat it.”
Any fundraising event raises vital cash for this charity, she outlines. “A coffee morning, a ‘pink’ party or a cake sale, every cent counts and gives a chance for all of us to have some fun while supporting the work of the research team at NBCRI.”
The institute is based at NUI Galway under the directorship of Professor Michael Kerin. A leader in the field of breast cancer research it combines ethical research into the biology of breast cancer with raising awareness about the disease. The institute fundraises continually to help improve breast cancer services for Irish women. For further information contact the NBCRI at 1890 611 711 or log onto www.nbcri.ie
Early diagnosis is a key to surviving breast cancer. More than 2,000 new cases of the condition are diagnosed in Ireland each year. Irish women have a one in 12 chance of developing it in their lifetime. Some 74 per cent of Irish women with breast cancer discovered the lump themselves. The risk of developing the disease increases with age. Approximately 80 per cent of breast cancers occur in women over 50 years. Around 14 men develop breast cancer in Ireland each year.
