BREAST cancer is one of the most common cancers in Ireland. Each year here, more than 3,400 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with it. It is more common in women over 50, but it can affect younger women too.
This has led to calls to lower the age of BreastCheck screening to 40. TERESA COSTELLO is a Fianna Fáil Councillor in Tallaght Central and is seeking re-election this week. She was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 36.
Writing in the Irish Sun today, Teresa is calling for more support on women’s health and for the age of BreastCheck screening to be reduced to 40. MY life was turned upside down at 36 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, despite being in the best shape of my life. With a thriving career and a young son named Rhys, it was the last thing I expected.
Looking back, I realise that I wasn’t breast aware. I had three tumours and severe indentation but only discovered one lump by chance, prompting me to seek medical advice from my GP . At that time of my life, I felt invincible, never imagining I’d be the one hearing, “You have breast cancer.
” Those four words changed everything. Nine months of gruelling chemotherapy , during which I lost my hair, eyelashes, and my right breast, reshaped my life and priorities. While this was by no means an easy journey, the support of my family and friends and a positive outlook carried me through.
Determined not to let the diagnosis define me, I saw my experience as an opportunity to help other.
