'Your Health Matters' roadshow in Athlone next week

The Irish Cancer Society will host a ‘Your Health Matters’ roadshow in Golden Island Shopping Centre Athlone from on Wednesday May 20 and Thursday May 21.

Members of the public are invited to come along to the free event from 10am to 5pm on both days and speak with specialist cancer nurses who will be available to discuss any health related issues.

Available at the roadshow are free blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI) and carbon monoxide (CO) readings and information on cancer prevention, screening, and ways to help spot the early signs of cancer. A referral for a GP can also be arranged where further help is required.

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 or do not 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.