The first edition of the Irish Cancer Society’s ‘Your Health Matters’ roadshow met with unprecedented demand in Tallaght recently with over 2,000 people engaged and 200 health checks taking place across two days. The ‘Your Health Matters’ roadshow gives the public the opportunity to get a free health check and have a conversation with a nurse about any health issues they may be having. The roadshow is being rolled out for the first time as the Society is concerned that some people have not yet sought medical advice for symptoms of cancer due to pandemic.
Demand for the free walk-in consultations, which includes a blood pressure check, body mass index (BMI) and carbon monoxide (CO) reading has been so high that the Society is increasing capacity to facilitate additional interest at the coming events.
Speaking at the ‘Your Health Matters’ roadshow today, Irish Cancer Society’s Director of Advocacy, Rachel Morrogh said, ”The extraordinary engagement and interest in the ‘Your Health Matters’ roadshow shows a real appetite from the general public to look after their health. People have been coming to us with a variety of questions about niggling health issues, most of which are unlikely to be cancer but they feel relieved to have chatted with a nurse, who can refer them on for further help if there is cause for concern. Others have more general questions and concerns regarding cancer treatments and screening. “The Irish Cancer Society is extremely concerned about the impact of the pandemic on cancer in Ireland. We know that some people have put off presenting to their GPs with health concerns that are unexplained, unusual or persistent, so we are delighted to have the opportunity to offer these free health checks across Dublin over the coming weeks. “We are urging people to avail of these free health checks and discuss any concerns they may have with one of our nurses, because early detection of cancer leads to better treatment options and ultimately saves lives”.
Anyone with concerns or questions about cancer, or who wants to learn more about support services available in their area can contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700.
