Oesophageal cancer, one of the most deadly forms of cancer with a mortality rate of over 90 per cent, is on the rise, particularly among young women, and those aged under 50.
Oesophageal cancer
The Republic has one of the highest rates in the world. There are two types: one is associated with smoking and alcohol (squamous cell cancer) and one with heartburn and reflux (andenocarcinoma). Through Lollipop Day it is hoped to increase awareness and encourage people to visit their doctor at the first sign of difficulty in swallowing. The first annual Lollipop Day will be held on Saturday. All proceeds from the day go towards raising awareness and research into prevention and cure. For further information: tel 01-2020508/website www.lollipopday.com
Stop smoking
A new Stop Smoking Clinic in Dublin 4 offers a five-week "Stop Smoking and Stay Stopped" programme. Group sessions of eight to 12 people are led by health professionals and address the physical and psychological dependency on nicotine. No nicotine replacements are used, nothing is put into the body; the programme also addresses alternative methods of satisfying needs met by smoking.
Participants do not need to stop smoking immediately, but carbon monoxide levels are measured each week to verify reduction in smoking, and should be zero on completion of the programme. For further details: 01-6602355.
Family carers
"There are men, women and children of all ages providing constant care for family members or friends. Without this vital service, our health system would collapse," says Julie Healy, chairperson of Care Alliance Ireland. There are an estimated 200,000 family carers in Ireland.Niall Crowley, chief executive of the Equality Authority is the keynote speaker at the seventh annual seminar of Care Alliance Ireland, which takes place in Clonliffe College, Drumcondra, Dublin 3, on Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Registration begins at 10.30 a.m. Admission €5. Tel: 01-4756989. E-mail: cai@ageaction.ie
Raynaud's disease
Approximately 350,000 Irish people suffer from the Raynaud's disease, a painful condition affecting the blood supply in the hands and feet. The Irish Raynaud's and Scleroderma Society is hosting its annual information conference on Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., in the Tara Towers Hotel, Booterstown, Co Dublin. Tel: 01-2350900.
Lifelines is compiled by Dr Muiris Houston and Sylvia Thompson
lifelines@irish-times.ie