Irish patients help in worldwide fight against breast cancer
New treatments are preventing recurrence of early-stage breast cancer and slowing progression when the disease is at an advanced stage.
Currently, there are 13 hospitals participating in seven breast cancer clinical trials organised by the All Ireland Cooperative Oncology Research Group (ICORG).
Four of the trials are concentrating on early-stage breast cancer, while two are focusing on the advanced disease. One trial is still at planning stage.
As well as attracting international research programmes to Ireland ICORG, a charity-based organisation, has been helping Irish cancer patients to access the latest research treatments. Since 1997, 1,260 breast cancer patients have participated in clinical trials in Ireland.
Yesterday, which was Pink Ribbon Day, Action Breast Cancer stressed the importance of people continuing to support breast cancer research.
Consultant oncologist and chair of the Irish Cancer Society’s medical committee, Dr John Kennedy said they were looking forward to further advances in breast cancer treatments.
“The existence of leading-edge cancer clinical research [in Ireland] allows Irish patients to make a significant contribution in enhancing understanding of how certain cancers can be treated successfully and means that Irish patients can get access to the very latest cancer drugs,” he said.
Pink ribbons and pink ribbon wristbands were on sale for 2 on streets around the country yesterday and will continue to be available in Boots Stores and other retail outlets throughout next month, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Street collections will raise an estimated €300,000, more money is expected from the sale of a variety of ‘pink’ products in some major stores.
Around 650 women die from breast cancer every year in Ireland.
Latest data from the National Cancer Registry confirmed 2,285 new cases of breast cancer in 2004 and this figures is projected to increase to 4,700 cases by 2020 — a 105% increase.
Women who want to discuss their breast cancer concerns with a specialist nurse or avail of the services of Action Breast Cancer can call freefone 1800 30 90 40 (weekdays 9am to 5pm) or email abc@irishcancer.ie.
