Deputy calls for Breastcheck extension

Kildare South TD Martin Heydon (FG) has called on the Minister for Health to extend the Breastcheck programme to women over 65, writes Brian Byrne.

In a pre-budget submission to Minister Leo Varadker, Deputy Heydon noted that the cost of extending it would amount to a relatively small €3m, and would save many lives.

According to the Irish Cancer Society, the incidence of female breast cancer and deaths from breast cancer is second highest amongst the 60-69 age group. Only half of this group is currently covered by Breastcheck.