With Breast Cancer Awareness Month beginning this week, the Irish Cancer Society is urging people all over Ireland to host a Big Pink Breakfast to support vital support services and groundbreaking cancer research.

Thousands of people around the country are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, and this October, you have the power to make a big impact on their lives.

There are many ways to get involved – you can sign up to host your own Big Pink Breakfast, host an event your own way or even pick up a box of pins to sell at your local business or to your friends and family.

Each year, funds raised through the Big Pink Breakfast support over 180 cancer researchers across Ireland and ensures qualified nurses are on hand to offer families impacted by cancer the support they need at 13 Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Centres around the country.

Last year alone, the event helped fund more than 5,150 free lifts to and from hospital treatment for breast cancer patients, over 380 nights of Night Nursing care to allow breast cancer patients to pass away at home and over 5,330 counselling sessions to help breast cancer patients cope with their diagnosis.

The Irish Cancer Society typically only receives around 5% of its funding from the Government, so it relies on the generosity of its supporters around the country to keep delivering these vital services and research each and every year.

You have the power to change the lives of people with breast cancer now and into the future, by getting involved at cancer.ie/pink.

You can also donate directly to the Irish Cancer Society today, with every cent you donate designated to breast cancer research, care, and support.

Breast cancer patient Katie. Image: Irish Cancer Society

While breast cancer is more common in women over the age of 50, those under 50 can also be affected.

Each year in Ireland, almost 3,600 women and around 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. The Irish Cancer Society is urging people across the country to be breast aware and look out for the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

The sooner you notice a change, the better, because if cancer is found early, treatment is more likely to be successful. Get into the habit of looking at and feeling your breasts every month. This will help you to notice any change if it occurs.