BBC News | NORTHERN IRELAND | Breast cancer awareness goes online

Women concerned about breast cancer in Northern Ireland can now avail of an internet site offering information on every aspect of the disease.

Launched by Action Cancer, the site features frequently asked questions, survivors' diaries and a rich resources section.

Breast cancer is still the most common cancer found in women but can be successfully treated if detected early.

Chair of the Institute of Directors in the province, Ann Shaw, launched the official website, www.actionbreastcancer.org, in Belfast on Thursday.

She said: "This is a timely response to the need for fast, accessible information on breast cancer, which claims the lives of over 300 women each year in Northern Ireland."

Joe Braden, Action Cancer's Director of Fundraising said women aged between 25 and 40 in the UK would account for six out of 10 internet users over the next six months.

"Our research showed an increasing number of women logging on for information on a wide range of health issues.

This is a timely response to the need for fast, accessible information on breast cancer, which claims the lives of over 300 women each year in Northern Ireland

Ann Shaw
"The creation of a Northern Ireland-specific breast cancer information site was a logical step in our campaign to drive down fatalities and improve survival rates through enhances awareness," he said.

The 48-page site is sponsored by Nambarrie Tea Company, who sponsor Action Cancer's Breast Cancer Awareness campaign.

It will be updated regularly and Mr Braden said it would become an "interactive library of cancer-related content."

Action Cancer provides full-time clinics in Action Cancer House, Malone Road, Belfast for women of all ages. It is free of charge.

Breast screening using mammography is offered every two years to all women aged 45 years and over.

Women between the ages of 30 and 45 may be offered a mammogram at the discretion of the doctor.

There is also a National Health Breast Screening programme for women between the ages of 50 and 64.

Action Cancer also provides a mobile clinic service throughout Northern Ireland.


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