This October, Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charity, is launching its Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign, Breast Friends proudly supported by its4women.

At the heart of the campaign are inspiring stories from a group of women whose breast cancer was detected through Action Cancer’s life-saving breast screening service. These women, now Ambassadors for the charity, will be sharing their journeys throughout October to spread awareness and highlight the importance of early detection.

Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women in Northern Ireland, representing 30% of all female cancer diagnoses. Each year, approximately 1,490 women are diagnosed, and tragically, 312 lose their lives to the disease. Early detection through breast screening is vital, as it increases the chances of catching cancer in its most treatable stages. Action Cancer offers this critical service to women aged 40-49 and 70+—a free service not available anywhere else in the UK or Ireland. The charity’s screening takes place at Action Cancer House in Belfast, as well as on board the Big Bus

A Commitment to Innovation and Care

What sets Action Cancer’s clinic apart is its use of advanced 3D breast imaging technology, known as Tomosynthesis, which can detect small cancers hidden within breast tissue. Donna McKernan, Advanced Practice Radiographer at Action Cancer, highlights the importance of this unique service:

"Our clinic is the only one in the UK and Ireland to offer Tomosynthesis during screening. The technology helps us detect very small cancers, ensuring that every woman receives the best possible care."

She also emphasizes the dedication of Action Cancer’s X-ray team, noting, "Meeting the women who have overcome breast cancer and are now celebrating their journeys with us has been an incredibly rewarding experience. We are committed to continuing to offer life-saving screening services and rehabilitation support to women throughout Northern Ireland."

its4women’s Ongoing Support Through the Breast Friends Campaign

its4women has been a key supporter of Action Cancer’s Breast Friends fundraising campaign since 2019. The campaign encourages friends, families, and communities to come together and raise funds for the charity's breast screening service through social events.

Kerry, Marketing Manager at its4women, shared her pride in the campaign's achievements:

"Since 2019, its4women has matched the public's fundraising efforts for Breast Friends, contributing up to £180,000 by 2025. To date, this initiative has raised over £260,294, allowing 2,294 local women to access potentially life-saving breast screenings."

Kerry urges the public to continue their support by hosting events such as girls’ nights in, quiz nights, or coffee mornings, adding, "its4women will match whatever you raise, doubling the impact of your efforts. Together, we can save more lives."

Get Involved and Make a Difference

Women aged 40-49 and 70+ can now book their breast screening appointments through Action Cancer’s website or by calling 028 9080 3344. For those interested in hosting a Breast Friends fundraising event this October, contact breastfriends@actioncancer.org.

By partnering with Action Cancer, its4women is helping to ensure that more women across Northern Ireland receive the early detection services they need. Every fundraising effort, no matter how small, has the power to save lives.

For more information on how to support the campaign or book your screening, visit Action Cancers Website.