To mark World Cancer Day today Breast Cancer Ireland has released its first-ever Social Impact Report, marking over a decade of ground-breaking achievements in research, education, and awareness. The report reveals:
- €34.5 million raised since 2012, enabling significant progress in breast cancer research, treatments and personalised patient care.
- €15 million has been invested by the charity to date in funding lifesaving research across 33 projects worldwide.
- 56 high-impact journal publications accelerating global understanding of breast cancer through Breast Cancer Ireland supported scientific discovery.
- 52 researchers have been supported to date across 3 continents, demonstrating the power of international collaboration in advancing prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
- 145,000 people have been educated on the importance of good breast health and the 8 signs and symptoms of the disease through the nationwide and complimentary Education and Awareness Programme.
Since its incorporation in 2012, the charity’s efforts have contributed to a remarkable improvement in survival rates, from 73% to 88%, with mortality rates decreasing 2% annually.
However, worryingly, a steady increase in the number of young women specifically (aged 20-49) being diagnosed with breast cancer is also a serious concern, with numbers increasing from 677 per year in 2013 rising to 853 by the end of 2022*.
This represents a crude increase in incidence rate within this younger cohort from 67/100,000 to 79/100,000.
Aisling Hurley, CEO of Breast Cancer Ireland commented “Our mission is to transform breast cancer into a treatable illness for all diagnosed.
“This report underscores the incredible progress we’ve made together—thanks to the dedication of researchers, supporters, sponsors and advocates.
“There are undoubtedly significant reasons for hope as we look at the long list of achievements and clinical breakthroughs to date.
“However, the increasing number of younger women presenting with symptoms is deeply worrying and once again highlights the importance of education & awareness to ensure earlier detection.
“In recent months, we are seeing rising numbers of women (many in their twenties and thirties) contacting us for support and eagerness to share their story of diagnoses at a shockingly young age.
“Sadly, breast cancer doesn’t discriminate and can affect women (and men!) of all ages. We are urging this younger cohort to please ensure that they self-check regularly and are hyper aware of all 8 signs and symptoms this World Cancer Day and into the future”
Significant Achievements Highlighted in the Report
- Scientific Research: The establishment of the National Breast Cancer Bio Resource and Patient Profiling Centre, funded by Breast Cancer Ireland has driven innovation in personalised medicine, reducing chemotherapy needs for 50% of patients.
- Global Collaboration: Support for 52 researchers across Europe, North America, and Asia has fostered breakthroughs in clinical trials, drug development, and surgical solutions.
- Awareness & Education: Through its nationwide programme, the charity has reached over 145,000 people in schools, companies, and community groups with critical information about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer under the #awarenesssaveslives campaign.
Rising Concern and Continued Challenges
Despite advancements, breast cancer remains the most common cancer in Ireland, with approximately 3,700 people diagnosed annually, including a rising number of younger women.
An estimated 730 lives are still lost each year, with metastatic breast cancer remaining one of the most challenging areas for both research and treatment.
“Behind every single statistic is a life impacted,” added Ms. Hurley. “Our work is far from over. We are committed to funding innovative research, improving treatment options, and equipping people with the knowledge they need to detect cancer early. We are very much in this fight together – our wish is to ensure that people get to spend as much precious time as possible with their loved ones”
Looking Forward
As Breast Cancer Ireland celebrates over a decade of impact, its ultimate goal remains clear – to make breast cancer a treatable illness for everyone diagnosed.
The charity’s ongoing commitment to research and education ensures a brighter future for patients and families alike across the country, and future campaigns will place an even greater focus on breast cancer occurrence in both young women and on those impacted by metastatic breast cancer in particular.
To view the full Social Impact Report, visit https://www.breastcancerireland.com/about-us/impact-report/