Action Cancer, Northern Ireland’s leading local cancer charity, has launched its Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign for October with support from Gordons Chemists — urging more women to book breast screening and backing Breast Friends fundraising across the province.
Ambassadors and partners gathered at Action Cancer House in Belfast for the campaign launch. New Ambassadors for the charity’s breast screening service — women whose breast cancer was detected through Action Cancer — will share their stories throughout October to highlight why early detection matters.
According to Action Cancer’s latest statistics, breast cancer remains the most common cancer among females in Northern Ireland, accounting for 30% of female cancer diagnoses. The charity says 1,513 women are diagnosed and 310 die every year.
Screening is for well women with no signs or symptoms. Action Cancer offers breast screening to women aged 40–49 and 70+, and encourages women aged 50–70 to attend NHS routine screening when called. Early detection through screening can mean cancers are found sooner, when treatment options may be more effective.
Screening takes place at Action Cancer House in Belfast and on the charity’s Big Bus, which visits SuperValu and Centra stores — reaching around 175 locations across Northern Ireland each year. Action Cancer says the free service is unique in the UK and Ireland and aims to screen up to 8,000 women annually. The charity reports it detects eight cancers per 1,000 screenings, while most women leave with reassurance.
Readers supporting other pink-ribbon community events this autumn can also find LoveBelfast’s coverage of the Belfast Pink Run at Titanic Slipways on 11 October.
Book your mammogram
Donna Kelly, Lead Advanced Practice Radiographer at Action Cancer, said the service uses Tomosynthesis (3D) imaging that is unique in the UK and Ireland, with an X-ray team focused on care and accessible booking.
“At Action Cancer we use Tomosynthesis — 3D breast imaging that is unique in the UK and Ireland — and our X-ray team is here to look after every woman who comes through our doors,” Donna Kelly said. “You can book online or by phone, including evening and weekend appointments, and our Therapeutic Suite offers integrative oncology support alongside screening.”
“October appointments are open now. Early detection saves lives, so book your mammogram today.”
Women aged 40–49 and 70+ can book at www.actioncancer.org or by calling 028 9080 3344.
Gordons Chemists turn pink for a 21st year
Fiona McQuillan, Pharmacist at Gordons Chemists, said 2026 marks the retailer’s 21st year of corporate support for Action Cancer’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign.
“This is our 21st year supporting Action Cancer’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign,” Fiona McQuillan said. “Across October, our 55 stores in Northern Ireland will turn pink to raise funds and keep the early detection message front and centre for customers and communities.”
Breast Friends fundraising
Action Cancer’s Breast Friends appeal aims to raise £30,000 toward screening. The charity says each free screening costs around £120 and receives no government funding. Supporters are encouraged to host coffee mornings, paint and sip sessions, pamper days, ladies’ nights and similar events.
For a fundraising pack, contact Lisa McClenaghan at breastfriends@actioncancer.org.
Book screening or find out more at www.actioncancer.org.
Related: ‘Breast screening saved my life’: West Belfast mum urges women to book a mammogram this October
Read more: Cancer Focus NI and Rebecca McKinney Launch Focus On Podcast for Breast Cancer Awareness Month · What is Titanic Quarter? Belfast’s waterfront district
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