Irish Cancer Society to offer free health checks in Athlone

The Irish Cancer Society is providing free health checks in Athlone today and tomorrow as part of the 'Your Health Matters' Roadshow.

Members of the public can speak to one of their cancer nurses who can answer any questions people may have from 9am to 5.30pm today (Wednesday) and tomorrow (Thursday) from 9am to 7.30pm.

The 15-minute health check includes blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) checks and a carbon monoxide (CO) reading. Nurses can also arrange a referral to a GP if further help is needed.#

Early detection and diagnosis of cancer is essential to improve health outcomes. When cancer is diagnosed early, it can improve the quality of life of those living with cancer, increase survival and reduce the severity of treatment. Many patients find it difficult to attend GP visits even when they are experiencing potential cancer symptoms. The ‘Your Health Matters’ Roadshow initiative seeks to change this by promoting positive lifestyle changes, increasing awareness of cancer symptoms, and improving medical care-seeking behaviour for the early signs of cancer.

This year the roadshow has been to 14 different locations around the country. To date, over 16,000 people have learned about the importance of early detection, and over 1,200 people have received health checks in 2022. The roadshow will travel to Meath, Donegal, Louth and Dublin over the coming months.

This nurse-led community outreach initiative is delivered in shopping centres in areas of most disadvantage. Trained nurses provide confidential consultations with members of the local community. They provide basic health checks and lifestyle advice to improve people’s awareness of cancer signs.