Ignorance on cancer - State not solely responsible

IT IS amazing that only two women in a hundred realise that the risk of breast cancer increases with age.

A national study published yesterday by the Irish Cancer Society found most women believe that family background is the biggest single-risk factor.

Such a level of ignorance is disturbing. Especially as there have been extensive publicity campaigns by official and voluntary bodies to make people aware of the risks and the disciplines needed to try to protect oneself. Criticising government delays in nearly every area of public life has almost become a national sport but in this instance they cannot be criticised.

They are responsible for scandalous delays in the introduction of screening services but individuals are responsible for monitoring their own health.

This year’s Breast Awareness Month, launched in Dublin yesterday, is the perfect opportunity for people to reach a better understanding of their role in the management of their own health.