New statistics from the Irish Cancer Society have revealed 19 people are being diagnosed with cancer in Mayo every week and cancer rates have increased by four per cent over the last three years.
John McCormack, chief executive officer of the Irish Cancer Society, says every family in Mayo is now touched by cancer and these new figures confirm that cancer rates are growing.
Mr McCormack was speaking at the launch of the Irish Cancer Society’s biggest fundraising event, Daffodil Day, which takes place on Friday March 27.
The charity aims to raise €3.5 million on the day with the support of thousands of volunteers and the public.
Mr McCormack said rising cancer rates had led to an increased demand for the charity’s services.
“As the national cancer charity we are working harder to ensure that every family in need of support in Mayo has access to our services,” he outlined. “To meet the increased demand for help as more people get and survive cancer we need to raise even more money this year on Daffodil Day.”
Funds raised on Daffodil Day go directly to fund the work of the Irish Cancer Society in areas such as support, prevention, research, and advocacy.
To find out more about supporting Daffodil Day, visit www.cancer.ie/daffodilday or callsave 1850 60 60 60.
