This is a tool provided by the Irish Cancer Society for information only it is not intended to replace a consultation with your doctor.
Breast Cancer
Each year in Ireland, more than 3,400 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. It is more common in women over 50, but it can affect younger women too.
Detecting cancer early
Learn about changes to look for when checking your body for early detection, and how cancer is usually diagnosed.
Treatments
Breast cancer is treated with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapies, depending on the type.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is when cells in your breast change and grow in an abnormal way. A group of these cancer cells can form a tumour. Breast cancer is a common cancer in Ireland. More than 3,400 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
We use the term ‘woman/women’ in our breast cancer information, but we understand that not everyone who may need this information identifies as a woman. Although it is rare, men can get breast cancer too.
Whoever you are, wherever you come from, we are here for you. For confidential advice, information and support, contact our Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700.
Breasts: Structure and Role
Your breasts are made up of different types of tissue including fat, connective tissue and gland tissue. The gland tissue is divided into milk lobes and milk ducts. During and after pregnancy, milk is made and stored by the lobes and carried to the nipple by the ducts.
Your breasts are rarely the same size as each other. They may feel different at different times of the menstrual cycle, sometimes becoming lumpy just before your period. Under your skin, a ‘tail’ of breast tissue extends into your armpit (axilla).
The armpits also contain a collection of lymph nodes (glands) that make up part of the lymphatic system.
Online Breast Health Checker
What do you know about breast health?
Take this short quiz and find out more about staying healthy and the signs of breast cancer.
Risk and prevention of breast cancer
Read more about [risk factors and reducing your risk of breast cancer].
National breast screening programme
Check if you are registered for the free screening of women aged 50-67 in Ireland.
Check if you are registered for the free screening of women aged 50-67 in Ireland.
For more information on the screening programme, you can contact BreastCheck directly at Freephone 1800 45 45 55 or visit the BreastCheck website.
BreastCheck is a Government funded programme providing breast screening and invites women aged between 50 to 69 years for a free mammogram on an area-by-area basis every two years. The aim of BreastCheck is to reduce deaths from breast cancer by finding and treating the disease at an early stage.
Continue reading about Breast Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
About suggestions
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Online Breast
Health Checker
Take this short quiz and find out more about staying healthy and the signs of breast cancer.
Our Survivor Support programme we can match you with a volunteer who has gone through a similar experience.
Discover of you are enrolled for breast screening
If you’re finding it difficult to get to and from treatments, we may be able to ease some of the strain of travelling to and from your appointments.
Related Support
In-hospital support
The Irish Cancer Society's Children’s Cancer Nurse at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin Hospital one day per week provides free, confidential advice, support and information to anyone affected by a child’s cancer.
Peer Support
Peer Support is a free and confidential phone service connecting people with similar cancer experiences. Our volunteers are trained to provide emotional and practical cancer support.
