In the space of the last ten years, the number of patients diagnosed with breast cancer annually at Beaumont Hospital has grown from 89 to 400. Various factors have influenced this increase - rapid population growth in the catchment area; a growing recognition of the need to be breast aware and an acknowledgement of the quality of care, provided by the hospital's Breast Care Service, have all played a part in driving up attendance figures.

At present, approx. 9,000 women are seen in our breast clinics annually. This very large through-put of outpatients places huge pressure on hospital capacity. The need for a dedicated clinic is urgent, both to alleviate the patient volumes in the main hospital and to allow us shape and define a uniquely, patient-focused service for people with breast issues in this community.

We are appealing to people in the community to get behind this exciting project which is already over 75% funded. It will ensure that women and men with breast symptoms have access to one of the best breast diagnostic and treatment centres in the country.

There are several ways you can support the Breast Clinic Appeal. You can make a donation. You can take part in one of our fundraising events or you can organise your own. Whatever you can do to help us reach our 1million target will be so gratefully received. For more ways in which you can get involved, see beaumontfundraising.ie