Engagement in the Irish Cancer Society’s ‘Your Health Matters’ roadshow increased by nearly 10% compared to 2024

The Irish Cancer Society’s Your Health Matters roadshow engaged with over 29,900 people about the signs and symptoms of cancer, up from 27,300 on the previous year, while visiting 20 locations across the country in 2025. 

The charity is urging the public to continue to get any concerning signs or symptoms checked out.

The Your Health Matters roadshow offers free health checks from Cancer Nurses in communities across Ireland.

Over 2,236 health consultations took place at the roadshows, up 17% from 2024.

The Irish Cancer Society’s Cancer Nurses and volunteers are looking forward to getting out on the road again in 2026 and engaging with even more members of the public.

Kevin O’Hagan, the Irish Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Manager, said the roadshows play an important role in addressing people’s concerns about the signs and symptoms of cancer and supporting people with lifestyle changes that can reduce their risk of cancer.

He urged the public to seek medical advice if they notice any worrying changes in their body.

“We were delighted that more people than ever before attended our roadshow.

“More than 29,900 people engaged with our nurses and volunteers in 20 locations nationwide in 2025.

“We are also looking forward to continuing to bring the roadshow to communities across the country in 2026.

“The roadshows are important in helping with the early detection of cancer.

“People attending the roadshows had a wide range of concerns ranging from risks of cancer, diagnosis, treatment and support after treatment.

“The majority of concerning symptoms presented at the roadshow were skin changes, weight loss, and changes in toilet habits.

“Body weight was the most common risk factor people were interested in addressing.

“Many people reported that they had not been to their GP for some time.?

“For 17%, it was more than a year since they last saw their GP,?41% up to a year, and 6% did not have a GP, so they were very grateful for the opportunity to speak with a Cancer Nurse.

 “We are urging people with any worrying symptoms to go to their GP and get them checked out.

“If you’ve noticed any unexplained weight loss, a new lump or a persistent cough, make it your New Year’s resolution to get it addressed and find out what’s causing it.

“Screening programmes like BreastCheck, CervicalCheck, and BowelScreen can help to pick up cancer early in people who may be showing no other symptoms, so it is vital that those who are eligible, attend for screening when they are invited.

“We know that the early detection of cancer is vital and saves lives, so the sooner you uncover what is causing your symptoms the better your changes are of successful treatment. 

Anyone with a concern or query about cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society’s Freephone Support Line at 1800 200 700 or email supportline@irishcancer.ie.