World Cancer Day Marked In NI

A global consortium of cancer organisations is to lead a year-long communication campaign to educate local people on simple measures they can take to prevent cancer.

The campaign called 'Cancer can be prevented too' is being launched today, World Cancer Day, 4th February.

The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) and the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) are boosting the core message which will focus on how the risk of developing cancer can significantly be reduced through simple steps - stop smoking and limit alcohol intake, avoid excessive sun exposure and maintain a healthy weight by eating healthily and exercising regularly.

Globally, cancer accounts for one in eight of all deaths which is more than AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria combined.

Each year, over 12 million people are diagnosed with cancer and around 7.6 million die of the disease.

Gerry McElwee, Head of Cancer Prevention, UCF said: "In Northern Ireland one in three people will develop cancer during their lifetime and around 10,700 people are newly diagnosed every year.

"Most cancers are preventable in fact, research shows that around two thirds of all cancers could be prevented if we stop smoking, avoid sunburn, eat a varied diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, maintain a healthy weight and lead an active lifestyle.

"We all have the power to reduce our risk of cancer. By making behavioural changes and developing long-term lifestyle choices we could see a dramatic and sustained fall in cancer rates in Northern Ireland," he insisted.

UCF provides a range of interactive education programmes which include training, presentations and workshops to help local people adopt healthy, realistic strategies to help prevent cancer.

UCF provides these services in a variety of settings including workplaces, community groups, sports clubs and schools throughout Northern Ireland.

UCF also provide a free Stop Smoking Service which gives smokers vital support at a time and place convenient to them in venues such as GP practices, community centres, schools and workplaces.

(BMcC/GK)