UCF launch cancer prevention initiative

The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) has launched a new cancer prevention resource for young people which aims to reduce and prevent behaviours that contribute to the development of the disease.

Need2Know adopts an active learning approach for young people between the ages of 11-18 years old to combat tobacco use, alcohol misuse, unhealthy dietary practices, sedentary lifestyles, and sexual behaviour that causes disease and overexposure to the sun.

Clare Smith, Cancer Prevention Officer and Project Co-ordinator, UCF said: “Need2Know is the result of a carefully planned health promotion strategy. Initial needs assessment with young people has given the project direction, while an advisory group of professionals has helped structure the initiative.

“Recent research shows that two thirds of all cancers could be prevented if the information, lifestyles and policies advocated in this Need2Know initiative were adopted.”

Dr Bernadette Cullen, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, EHSSB added: “Research now provides us with more effective treatments leading to improved outcomes for many patients. However, in the long term, if we are to achieve a major reduction in the incidence of cancer among our population, we must address crucial prevention issues.”

This initiative, which was launched in Sullivan Upper School, Holywood, on Thursday, is funded by the Big Lottery Fund, via the Eastern Health and Social Services Board (EHSSB) and is managed and implemented by UCF.

(MB)