3 days ago
Pilot health checks for lung cancer being brought to high-risk people in Louth, Meath and Cavan
Participants for the Beaumont RCSI Irish Cancer Society lung health check are being chosen as part of a study targeting those aged between 55-74 years, who currently or previously smoked, as they are at higher risk than others of getting lung cancer.
The study will involve participants from selected Centric Health GP practices in the North Dublin and northeast region.
Invited participants will then attend a mobile lunch check unit in O'Raghalliagh's GAA Club in Drogheda.
The participating GP practices in Drogheda include: Bryanstown Medical Centre; Fairgate Medical Practice; Hilltop Drogheda; and Northgate Surgery.
In Dundalk, The Square Medical is included. Meanwhile, in Meath the Trim Medical, Headfort Family Practice is included and in Cavan, The Cottage Baileborough is included.
Participants from Ashbourne Clinic, Meath will attend a mobile health unit in Fingallians GAA Club Swords.
Participation invites will be sent through a letter of invitation to take part in the study, along with a leaflet with more details of the process.
A team member will then be in touch to specify a date and time for a screening. Invites can also be turned down, with details provided on how to opt out.
CEO of the Irish Cancer Society Averil Power said: 'This historic investment by the Irish Cancer Society marks a turning point for lung cancer in Ireland. Lung cancer kills more Irish people every year than any other cancer, mainly because it is diagnosed late when it is difficult to treat.
'We are confident this pilot programme will save lives by detecting cancer early. We hope that in time it will lead to a free national lung check programme for all Irish people at high risk of getting lung cancer.'
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Ireland, with six in every 10 lung cancer diagnoses detected at a late stage when it is harder to treat.
The Lung Health Check is part of a €4.9m partnership between Irish Cancer Society and Beaumont RCSI Cancer Centre, funded by the Irish Cancer Society, to drive improvements in lung cancer early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
