Clare calls to start breast cancer screening at age 40 and to include men in awareness efforts
Clare County Council is urging a policy shift that would see BreastCheck screening begin at age 40 for women and an educational drive that also informs men about breast cancer and self-check procedures. The move aligns with European guidelines and reflects a growing emphasis on early detection and inclusive awareness campaigns across Ireland.
What the motion asks for
The motion, put forward by Cllr Howard, requests the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) to extend the BreastCheck service to women aged 40-74. This would lower the starting age by a decade, bringing Ireland more in line with European guidelines on breast cancer screening. In addition, the motion calls for a comprehensive educational program that informs both women and men about effective self-check practices and the signs of breast cancer.
Why extend BreastCheck to 40-74?
Breast cancer remains one of Ireland’s most common cancers, with approximately 3,600 Irish people diagnosed each year, around 40 of whom are men. Proponents of the proposal argue that extending screening to younger age groups could improve early detection, potentially reducing mortality and the need for intensive treatment later. The motion emphasizes education as a critical companion to screening, ensuring people understand not only when to be screened but also how to perform self-checks and recognize warning signs between formal screenings.
Education as a cornerstone of awareness
Education about breast cancer is central to the motion. Cllr Howard stressed that knowledge is power when it comes to catching the disease early. The proposal explicitly urges an education programme that not only targets women but also engages men, recognizing that breast cancer affects families and communities as a whole. Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua endorsed the move, sharing her personal experience with cancer and highlighting the importance of acknowledging male breast cancer, which is often overlooked.
Why include men in the awareness drive?
Although breast cancer is far more common in women, men can and do develop the disease. The motion notes that the breast tissue is the same biologically regardless of gender, meaning awareness and self-check knowledge should be inclusive. By educating men, the campaign can reach wider audiences, support patients’ families, and foster a culture of proactive health monitoring across communities.
Community and cross-party support
The proposal received cross-party backing, with councillors praising how clearly the motion was written and acknowledging the thorough reasoning behind it. Cllr Howard thanked colleagues for their support and reminded the chamber that men may be affected indirectly through partners, daughters, or other family members, underscoring the broader community impact of improved screening and education.
What happens next?
While the motion signals intent, it will require alignment between Clare County Council, the HSE, and NSAC to adjust screening guidelines and funding. If approved, the educational programme would need development, rollout, and ongoing assessment to measure its effectiveness in increasing awareness and early detection rates. The council’s stance reflects a broader push in Ireland to modernize cancer screening practices and to ensure information reaches all segments of the population.
Conclusion
With approximately 3,600 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed annually in Ireland, and a sizable portion of those cases occurring in younger age brackets, there is a strong argument for extending BreastCheck to women aged 40-74 and for inclusive education that reaches men as well. Clare County Council’s motion captures a proactive approach to health, combining early screening with informed self-checks to empower individuals and families alike.
