HEALTH: Getting any changes checked is a resolution worth keeping

At the start of every year, many people make personal resolutions to do with their health, whether it’s losing a few extra pounds or increasing their fitness levels. These are fantastic goals, but perhaps there’s another resolution we could make for our health.
This year, the Irish Cancer Society is urging people to make it their New Year’s resolution to get any worrying signs or symptoms of cancer checked out.
During 2024, the Irish Cancer Society’s Your Health Matters roadshow visited 26 locations across the country, stopping off in Silverbridge Shopping Centre, Claremorris, at the end of October. Altogether, the initiative engaged with more than 27,300 people about the signs and symptoms of cancer, while offering free health checks by cancer nurses.
Now, the Irish Cancer Society’s cancer nurses and volunteers are looking forward to getting out on the road again in 2025 and engaging with even more members of the public.
Kevin O’Hagan, the Irish Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Manager, is also urging the public not put off seeking medical advice if they notice any worrying changes in their body.
“Many people [who attended the roadshows] reported that they had not been to their GP for some time,” Kevin explains. “ For 16 percent, it was more than a year since they last saw their GP,  for 40 percent it was up to a year, and 3 percent did not have a GP, so they were very grateful for the opportunity to speak with a cancer nurse.
“We are urging people with any worrying symptoms to go to their GP and get them checked out. If you’ve noticed any unexplained weight loss, a new lump or a persistent cough, make it your New Year’s resolution to get it addressed and find out what’s causing it.
“We know that the early detection of cancer is vital and saves lives, and healthcare services are there for you and will help you to uncover what is causing your symptoms.
“Screening programmes like BreastCheck, CervicalCheck and BowelScreen are another valuable tool that help to pick up cancer early in people who may be showing no other symptoms, so it is vital that those who are eligible attend for screening when they are invited.”

Claremorris appeal
The Irish Cancer Society is also urgently seeking volunteer community organisers to bring Daffodil Day to Claremorris this March 28. The charity is looking for people with good contacts and a strong connection to their local community who would be willing to coordinate fundraising activities on the day.
If you’re interested in applying to be a Daffodil Day Community Organiser, visit www.cancer.ie and search ‘Daffodil Day Community Organiser’.
Anyone with a concern or query about cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society’s Freephone Support Line at 1800 200 700 or email supportline@irishcancer.ie.