Join Women Determined To Stop Cancer At This Year’s Mini Marathon

The Irish Cancer Society is calling on women of all ages to join their team for this year’s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon. Those joining ‘Team Irish Cancer Society’ for the 10km event on June 5th will be helping to stop cancer by raising vital funds for cancer research and free support services for cancer patients, while also reducing their risk of getting cancer by engaging in physical activity.

Cancer incidence is increasing and 40,000 people in Ireland will receive a cancer diagnosis this year. However, research shows that four in ten cancers can be prevented by making a number of lifestyle changes. 40% of cancer risk has been attributed to five lifestyle factors—tobacco, diet, overweight/obesity, alcohol and low physical activity.

Over the 40 days of Lent many people will have engaged in physical activity or introduced healthy eating habits into their lifestyle. The Irish Cancer Society is encouraging people to continue with their good habits and play a part in reducing their risk of cancer – and one way is to take on an active challenge such as the VHI Mini Marathon.

Kevin O’Hagan, Cancer Prevention Manager at the Irish Cancer Society said, “Being active and having a healthy diet also contributes to maintaining a healthy weight, which after not smoking, is the most important thing you can do for cancer prevention. Up to 40% of certain cancers are attributable to being overweight or obese and with most adults in Ireland now weighing more than they should, it is really important we do all we can to maintain a healthy weight  to lower the risk of cancer.

“Some people will have taken up good habits for Lent and should try to incorporate these changes into their daily life going forward. One great way to maintain healthy habits or to change unhealthy habits is to set a goal, to join with friends and take on the challenge of the Mini Marathon. Setting a goal is a great way to keep focused and motivated.  This challenge could be the start of a whole new lifestyle and go a long way to reduce your risk of cancer.”

Those participating in the Women’s Mini Marathon on behalf of the Irish Cancer Society will also be supporting those on their cancer journey by raising vital funds which will be invested in support services for cancer patients, and also in funding vital cancer research.

Since 2010, the Society has committed over €20 million to cancer research making it the leading voluntary funder of cancer research in Ireland. This investment, funded entirely by voluntary donations, has supported more than 150 cancer researchers to work on a diverse range of individual or collaborative projects that will ultimately lead to better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer.

Dubliner Susan Spillane is taking on the Women’s Mini Marathon in aid of the Irish Cancer Society for the second time. She said, “Three years ago my brother was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Nothing phased him during his ongoing fight and despite being told on more than one occasion to start putting his affairs in order he’s still here and fighting strong. That’s why I fundraise for the Irish Cancer Society. To help get towards a cure for my brother’s form of cancer and so many other forms that I’ve lost my Dad, aunts and uncles to.”

The closing date for entries to the VHI Mini Marathon is April 28th so sign up quick at www.vhiwomensminimarathon.ie and then join team Irish Cancer Society CallSave 1850 60 60 60 or visit www.cancer.ie/getactive