The average number of cases of breast cancer diagnosed in Ireland each year rose by nearly 3 per cent over a four-year period, according to figures released by Action Breast Cancer today.
Unveiling a month-long awareness programme urging women to be more "breast aware", the group said the average number of cases rose to 1,630 per year from 1995 to 1999. The average for the four years from 1994 to 1998 was 1,584.
Some 600 people die from breast cancer in Ireland every year, and the cancer support group expressed concern that the number of diagnoses continues to increase.
Action Breast Cancer, a project of the Irish Cancer Society, will host a nationwide roadshow, visiting Kilkenny, Bandon, Limerick, Athlone, Sligo, Donegal, Cavan, Drogheda and Dundalk.
Breast care nurses will be available to give free information and support on all aspects of breast awareness and breast cancer. Free evening information sessions will also take place throughout the country.
Speaking at an event to promote Breast Awareness Month, Dr John Kennedy, consultant medical oncologist at St James's Hospital in Dublin and chairman of the Irish Cancer Society's medical committee, said: "Irish women of all ages need to know the five-point breast awareness code.
"Knowing what is normal for you, knowing what changes to look out for in your breasts, looking and feeling for any changes, seeking the advice of your GP if you notice any changes and attending for routine screening if you are aged between 50 and 64 is absolutely vital."
Action Breast Cancer, set up two years ago, runs a helpline staffed by specialist cancer nurses: 1800-309040.